February Update
Dear friends,
As you may have realised, on a Sunday morning, we are underway with a series exploring the Ten Commandments, the fundamental principles that underpin what is sometimes called the Law in the Old Testament. Sometimes the phrase ‘the Law’ is used to refer to the specific code of conduct set out to Moses and his contemporaries, at other times the Bible speaks of ‘the Law’ as the record of God’s actions with His people, specifically in the first five books of the Bible, also known as the Torah.
In Psalm 1, the psalmist speaks of one being blessed if they delight in God’s law, and meditate on it. What the writer is saying is that to consider carefully the way of life that God sets out will bring blessing. The psalmist compares one who reflects deeply on God’s principles as a well-watered tree, planted by a stream - in other words, it is a source of life.
This month we will enter the Christian season of Lent - traditionally a time of reflection and preparation for Easter. Sometimes, due to the historic association with fasting, we consider what we might ‘give up’ for Lent. I wonder whether for some of us, we might take up the challenge to delight in God’s Law - not just the specifics of the Torah, but stretching the illustration wider - the whole of God’s counsel, the Bible. How might we ‘delight’ in God’s Law and make it a source of sustenance and refreshment to us? How might we meditate on it - taking time to be still and reflect, using our imagination, stillness, our breathing - to encounter God in His word.
Remember, drawing near to God in His word and availing ourselves of His counsel is for our benefit - it is life enhancing, it will cause us to be blessed. If you need some help where to begin, do speak to me or Pastor Jonny and we’d be thrilled to set you off with some tips.
Let’s make this Lent a time of delighting in God’s Law that we may know His blessing in our lives in a greater measure.
With love,
Gareth
04, 09, 23 February 4-6pm
This month we are running three additional Friyay sessions that will include a discussion group for parents to chat about faith/life questions. While this happens, children’s activities will be taking place.
This is a great opportunity to bring along friends and family with children who would like a free meal and a chance to explore faith in a relaxed atmosphere. Please contact Denise Libby or Pastor Jonny for more information.
Our next healing service is on Sunday 4th February led by Dave Martin. The service includes holy communion and a time to pray with and for people in need of healing. All are welcome - 7pm.
06 February 7:30pm
Do come and join us as we lay the year ahead before the Lord at our church monthly prayer meeting. Led by Dave & Jane Martin, we will focus this month on the Discovery Café amongst other things.
18 Feb Café worship
On Sunday 18th February our evening service will be informal in style and take place in the Discovery Café at 7pm. Worship is led by Sophie Horlock and Gareth will be speaking.
New Tuesday Small Group
We are launching a new small group on a trial basis for four weeks. Led by Gareth and initially meeting at church, the focus will be on teaching & discussion, as well as application to daily life and learning skills for ministry and service in the church. It is open to all ages, but is predominantly aimed at young adults who have finished education and university. The group will meet in the prayer chapel at church 7:30pm - 9pm on 27th February and 5th, 12 & 19th March. For more information, please contact Gareth.
Coming up this month…
Thursday 1st February - 7pm - Mens Curry Night - The Mannamead, Mutley Plain
Friday 2nd February - 4pm - Friday Focus
Sunday 4th February - 11am - Morning Worship - Rev Gareth Higgs
Sunday 4th February - 7pm - Healing Service with Holy Communion - Rev Dave Martin
Wednesday 7th February - 7:30pm - Church Monthly Prayer Meeting
Friday 9th February - 4pm - Friday Focus
Sunday 11th February - 11am - Morning Worship - Rev Gareth Higgs
Sunday 11th February - 7pm - Evening Worship - Judi Vilkauskas
Sunday 18th February - 11am - Morning Communion - Rev Gareth Higgs
Sunday 18th February - 7pm - Cafe Worship - Rev Gareth Higgs
Friday 23rd February - 4pm - Friday Focus
Saturday 24th February - 9:20am - Messy Church
Sunday 25th February - 11am - Morning Worship - Pastor Mark Oliver
Sunday 25th February - 7pm - Evening Worship - Rev Gareth Higgs
Monday 26th February - 7:30pm - Church Council
Tuesday 27th February - 7:30pm - Tuesday Small Group