FROM THE RECTORY,
So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your
God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my
righteous right hand.
Isaiah 41:10 NIV
As I sat in my study at prayer when Ashley was in hospital, I began to
wonder what on earth I was going to do about pastoring my flock. I was
deeply aware that Ashley needed me and the church family needed me, plus
my own family needed me. So I went down on my knees and asked ‘HOW?’
I felt a sense of perfect peace grow around me, and the picture in my mind
was of Jesus sitting beside an old olive tree; the other disciples were asleep
and the sun was rising. In my mind I walked over and sat with Him, He put
His arm around my shoulder and with no words we watched the sun rise
together. It illuminated the land and warmed the earth, the colours of
darkness became bright morning and the birds’ song began to praise the
moment.
In the bible we are told that God is omnipresent, He is with us all wherever
we are, and in whatever we are doing or going through. The most wonderful
thing for me is that He isn’t busy doing everything at speed, He makes time
to just be and encourages us to do the same.
I was also reminded that we are His body on earth and we have all been
given a part to play in His grand plan. All of the church family have been of
value to Ashley and myself and to each other over the last few weeks, and
will I am certain continue to support us all through whatever happens. The
south side priests have also been alongside us in prayer and are helping
with practical things.
The south side is a strong body of Christ on Earth. It is an unusual collection
of churches and priests who are determined not to be jealously guarding of
our own little flocks. We are actively seeking ways to enable God’s plan for
growth to keep going. Some might say beginning! but I say we are tending
what is already with us and commanded from God!
16-17 Meanwhile,
the eleven disciples were on their way to Galilee,
headed for the mountain Jesus had set for their reunion. The moment
they saw him they worshiped him. Some, though, held back, not sure
about worship, about risking themselves totally.