Dear Brothers and Sisters,

This is the season of remembering.
On the 5th November we remember with thanks the failed gunpowder plot of 1605. On the 13th November we remember with thanks the end of the second world war on the 11/11/1945. And we remember, with thanks for them, loved ones who have died, some in the recent covid pandemic.

The great news of the resurrection of Jesus is that we don’t remember in vain – there is the promise of a joyful re-union for all who follow Him – much to look forward to as well as much to remember.

Just before He gave His life for us, Jesus prayed for His followers in these words  in John 19:24 ‘Father, I want those you have given me to be with me where I am, and to see my glory, the glory you have given me because you loved me before the creation of the world.’

We who follow Jesus have His perspective on life, and it spans from before the creation of the world to the end of the age when we will one day be ‘where He is’ – in the glory of God the Father.

Along with Jesus, we’ve been part of the Father’s plan before time began, and will be caught up in the glory of Jesus’ eternal, global rule when time has run its course.

That puts a refreshingly different perspective on things doesn’t it? In an age which is only aware of ‘now,’ we look back and forward further than NASA’s latest James Webb telescope can ‘see.’

So, let’s remember with thanks our past as people of the UK as there is much the Lord has done to bless us in this country; let’s remember with thanks our loved ones who have died in Christ, who we look forward to joining in His glory; and lets give thanks that our Lord Jesus has done all that’s needed for us to one day be at home with him too.
 
Every blessing in Christ,

Ian

It’s only just November…
…but with only just over 7 weeks to go and the sermon last Sunday to encourage us to think about who we can invite to hear about the Good News of Jesus’ birth, then perhaps these dates can go in your diary

Sunday 18th December Evening Carol Service
Saturday 24th December 4pm Children’s Carol Service
Sunday 25th December Christmas Day Service