Sunday 29 August 2021
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TRINITY 13
CLOSENESS AND DISTANCE The summer months are almost, but not quite at an end. Perhaps more than in any other year, we have felt the need to have loved ones around us: people we have been unable to visit or socialise with due to pandemic restrictions. We may have taken the glorious days of summer to re-engage with them, and feel more secure in their company. There are times in life when we need the closeness of family and friends. In times of anxiety or difficulty, we value the company of those who willingly and cheerfully uplift and support us. During this pandemic, it has been a constant complaint that close ties with other people have not been possible, and that many have suffered distress as a consequence. John Donne, the English poet, scholar, soldier and cleric, who was Dean of St. Paul's Cathedral in London (1621-1631) famously noted that "no man is an island," meaning that we all need human contact and are dependent on one another. Jesus was well aware of this human need for closeness. Throughout his public ministry, Jesus used closeness as a pastoral tool, getting close to people as a means of healing and helping them, and of restoring their dignity and worth. For example, Jesus got close to Nicodemus who, burdened with questions, came to him secretly by night. We see closeness in the conversation Jesus has with the woman from Samaria, whom he met at the well of Sychar; and we see it in his meeting with Zacchaeus, the hated tax-collector, whom he ordered to come down from a sycamore tree so that he might be a guest in his house. There are many occasions when Jesus exercised a "ministry of closeness" to others, getting alongside them to comfort, confront and even challenge them, and often restoring their dignity and worth. There are also times in life when people do not need closeness but distance. In other words, there are occasions when people need what we call "space," and when the "ministry of closeness" is not appropriate. In St. Luke's Gospel (18: 18-30), there is the story of a rich ruler, unable to meet the demands of discipleship because of his trust in his "great possessions." In this context, the term "ruler" might refer to a local magistrate, public official or civil servant, or even an officer in the Jewish synagogue. What is significant in the various versions of this story is that Jesus respected the man's decision to walk away. Jesus made no effort to try and persuade or cajole him into discipleship, not did he even engage in debate or discussion. Jesus "warmed" to the man, but let him go, wholly respecting his decision. This man needed "space" to reassess his priorities in the light of what Jesus had told him. In this case, the "ministry of closeness" would not have been appropriate. The "ministry of distance" was the better option. There are times in our life when we need not closeness but distance. There are times in our life when we need "space." When something unexpectedly comes our way that requires serious thinking, the closeness of other people, however well-intentioned, may become a distraction, rather than a solution. In truth, we all need "space" at one time or another in our lives - times when we need to get away from everything and from everyone, and not feel constrained by the closeness of others. Jesus was well aware of this. In this public ministry, he knew when it was appropriate for the "ministry of closeness" and the "ministry of distance." The question is: do we? O God, by your Spirit of wisdom, give us grace to discern when closeness or distance is the better option, so that we may give others the space they need to reflect, and not distract them by our well-meaning proximity; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. A PRAYER FOR THE WEEK O God, whose beauty is beyond our imagining and whose love we cannot comprehend: we give thanks that in your loving kindness you have safely brought us to another week. May each new day bring its opportunities of pleasing you and of serving you, and may all that we think and say and do bring blessing to us, to others and to you, our Lord and our God; through Jesus Christ our Saviour. Amen. A PRAYER FOR THE LIFE OF THE WORLD Almighty and eternal God, creator of the world, and of us, your creatures in it: have mercy on our broken and divided world, torn apart by conflict and strife, by poverty, want and disease, and by so many other problems, beyond our understanding to resolve. Take this world into your care and keeping; bring peace to Afghanistan and to every place where the love of power corrupts and destroys; and help us to be beacons of hope and bearers of light, even in earth's darkest place; through our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen. AN EVENING PRAYER As the day you gave us, Lord, is ended, watch over us and protect us through the coming night, so that in the morning, when the new day dawns and the world wakens from sleep, we may rise refreshed to love and serve you, and to put our whole trust only in you, our creator, sustainer, redeemer; in the name of Christ our Saviour. Amen. THE BLESSING The peace of God, which passes all understanding, keep our hearts and minds in the knowledge and love of God, and of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord; and the blessing of God Almighty, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, be among us, and remain with us, now and for evermore. Amen. |
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Sunday 22 August 2021
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TRINITY 12
SECOND THOUGHTS Within a short time, the trouble-torn nation of Afghanistan is back under Taliban control. Key cities have all been captured, and exiled Taliban leaders have now returned to their country. The international community has been shaken by this turn of events, and many of those who served in action there over the last twenty years are admitting to having "second thoughts" about their involvement, wondering if it was all worthwhile. To have "second thoughts" about something - is this not an experience with which we are familiar? Have there not been times in our lives when we have harboured "second thoughts", and chosen a different frame of mind or course of action? It is surely no exaggeration to claim that we have all been subject to "second thoughts" at one time or another, causing us to change our thinking and behave differently. In St. Luke's Gospel (19: 1-10), we read the well-known story of Zacchaeus. Being small in stature, Zacchaeus chose to climb a sycamore tree to get a better view of Jesus when he visited Jericho, enabling him to see above and beyond the crowd. Zacchaeus was a tax-collector by profession, gathering in revenue for the Roman government. The profession was, however, riddled with corruption and we are told that Zacchaeus himself was 'very rich.' We may assume that he had profited from his clients and not been thoroughly scrupulous in his accounting. When Jesus saw him, he ordered Zacchaeus to come down the tree at once, and caused a stir of disapproval when he invited himself to the tax-collector's house. Zacchaeus then made a vow to give away half of his possessions to charity, and also promised to repay four times over anyone he had defrauded. Here we have a notorious rascal turned philanthropist, giving away wealth, rather than gaining it by dishonest means. This is a clear case of someone having "second thoughts." In light of this, we must ask if having "second thoughts" is an issue for us. After all, it has been said that "someone who has never had second thoughts, never had any first thoughts." Bishop Hugh Montefiore tells us: "There is nothing wrong in second thoughts: they may well be better than first thoughts," while J.M. Barrie remarked: "I have always thought that the man whose second thoughts are good is worth watching." Even back in classical times, Euripides (Greek tragedy) writes: "In human life second thoughts are somehow wiser." Scientists, astronomers, philosophers and other great thinkers who form the intellectual elite have all had to alter their arguments and conclusions, if the data changed and called for such revision. Having "second thoughts" is not something to be embarrassed about. The story of Zacchaeus, where a man of notoriety becomes a man of virtue, reminds us that "second thoughts" can be life-changing. If and when having "second thoughts" troubles us, let us take comfort from the fact that we stand in good Biblical company, and that our "second thoughts" are often much better than our first. To change our opinion through more balanced and mature thinking can indeed be life-changing! Grant, O God, that when we have second thoughts and our opinions change, your Holy Spirit may lead us to more mature decisions, and to more responsible achievement; for Jesus Christ our Lord's sake. Amen. A PRAYER FOR THE DAY Almighty and everlasting God, whose ways are just and true and perfect, and by whose grace we celebrate this day: may your Holy Spirit bless us in all its duties and demands, and enable us to fulfil our tasks in ways that are pleasing to you. May we always hallow this day as your precious gift to us, set apart for prayer and praise; and by the power of your Holy Spirit help us to give you glory in all things; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. A PRAYER FOR THE LIFE OF THE WORLD (in light of circumstances in Afghanistan) Eternal God and Father, the creator of mankind and of nations: have mercy on our broken and divided world in the violence and unrest of our times, and especially on the people of Afghanistan, anxious about the present, fearful of the future. Give wisdom to all in positions of authority, that they may know your will, obey your laws, and have a high regard for human rights and a high respect for human life. May this world be transformed by your love from a wilderness of war and waste and want into a garden, worthy of your holy name; through your Son, our Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen. A CONCLUDING PRAYER Almighty and ever-living God, in whom we live and move and have our being: as evening shadows fade the light of day, help us to give you thanks and praise, to put our whole trust in your mercy, and to rest content in your peace; so that in the morning, when the day dawns, we may serve you in heart, mind and spirit; for Jesus Christ our Lord's sake. Amen. THE BLESSING The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us all. Amen. |
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Sunday 15 August 2021
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TRINITY 11
WITH ALL OUR MIND This week, the summer holidays come to an end for our school children in South Ayrshire. On Thursday, schools reopen, following a summer of sunshine, with some of the hottest days on record. After a challenging school session at the height of the pandemic, we hope that this one will be more settled and less disrupted. Society rightly stresses learning and education, and regards them as a lifelong process, rather than something we focus on in our formative years. We were always warned that when our university days were over, the learning process continued as a lifelong commitment. In St. Luke's Gospel (10: 27), Jesus was approached by a lawyer, who wanted to know what he must do to inherit eternal life. Jesus told him that he must love God, not only with all his heart, mind and soul, but also with all his mind. What Jesus is saying to us today is that we must think closely, carefully and critically about our faith, and how we apply it in a scientific age. To examine what we believe in this way is not an affront to God, but part of the way in which we express our love for him. Historians tell us that the Christian faith spread rapidly through Asia and into Europe because, among other things, the first Christians could ably out-argue their opponents, and clothe their Christianity in a cloak of credibility. Could this be said of us in modern times? Their thinking clearly confounded their critics. Nowadays, many people take their beliefs, their ethics, their moral choices, and their entire understanding of reality from the television, the newspaper, or some other source. We live in a world in which information abounds, with recognised experts on almost every subject. The internet has made it easier and quicker to gain access to information, but the daunting question arises: what is true, and what is "fake news?" The need for discernment has never been greater, and in some instances never more urgent. In times like these, we need to apply our minds and think about matters that affect us at a critical level. This applies as much to our Christian faith, as it does to everything else. In a scientific-focused world, where faith in science and human progress has largely displaced faith in God as found in Jesus Christ, we must love God "with all our mind," and make a case for the convictions we hold so dear. This requires serious brainwork on our part. God has no interest in lazy thinking. He has given us the faculties to think closely, carefully and critically. Indeed, the renewed mind plays a vital role in expressing our devotion to him! "The earth is filled with the Lord's unfailing love. Live lives worthy of the God who calls you into his kingdom and glory." A PRAYER FOR THE DAY Eternal God and Father, whose gift to us is this new day: set your blessing upon us as we begin this day together. Protect us from all harm and danger, keep us free from trial and temptation, deliver us from sin and from self. And when the day departs and our duties done, may your holy peace quietly rest upon us; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. A PRAYER FOR THE ENVIRONMENT (in light of the recent UN report) Creator God, you made all things and all you made was very good. Show us how to respect the fragile balance of life. Guide by your wisdom those who have power to care for or to destroy the environment, that by the decisions they make life may be cherished and a good and fruitful earth be preserved for future generations: through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. From: Common Order (Church of Scotland), Edinburgh, 483 A PRAYER FOR EDUCATION AND LEARNING (in light of our young people returning to school) God of truth, the only wise God, you have commanded us to love you with all our mind. So bless the work of schools and colleges and universities, that in them, the truth may be never be denied, betrayed, concealed, but be honoured, followed, and obeyed. Guide teachers and students in their endeavours to seek and serve the truth: may their learning never cut them off from the community, but lead them towards enlarged and selfless service. Grant that learning may flourish among us, as a means both of enriching our lives and of drawing us nearer to you from whom all truth proceeds; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. From: Common Order (Church of Scotland), Edinburgh, 483 A CONCLUDING PRAYER O God, forasmuch as without you we are not able to please you: mercifully grant that in all things, at all times, and in all places, your Holy Spirit may direct and rule our hearts; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. THE BLESSING May the blessing of God Almighty, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, rest upon us, and remain with us, now and for evermore. Amen. |
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Sunday 8 August 2021
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TRINITY 10
THE QUESTION OF IDENTITY In modern times, the whole question of identity is one of supreme importance. Time after time we are asked to confirm our identity by producing a raft of documents, such as our passport, driving-licence, a recent bank statement or utility bill. Identity theft and other scams are so rife that the need to prove our identity has become more of a compulsion than an option. In the New Testament, we often find the apostle Paul stating his identity, when writing to the various churches of his day. Thus, in Epehsians (1: 1), he says that this letter is "From Paul, by the will of God apostle of Christ Jesus," while he introduces himself to the Galatians (1: 1) in a more affirmative way: "From paul, an apostle commissioned not by any human authority or human act, but by Jesus Christ and God the Father who raised him from the dead." Jesus was often asked about his identity, and about whether or not he was God's Messiah. There are times when he was rather coy about the matter, but the whole question of Jesus's identity took on a new form on his way to Caesarea Philippi. In St. Mark's Gospel, (8: 27-30), we read that Jesus asked his disciples: "Who do people say I am?" Having received some answers, Jesus then put the question directly to them: "And you, who do you say I am?" Peter came out with the bold answer: "You are the Messiah," after which Jesus charged them not to tell anyone about him. In our society today, which is increasingly secular and takes much less notice of Christian or religious faith and practice, we may well wonder how to maintain our identity as followers of Jesus Christ. One response is to maintain our Christian integrity as much as possible, and live our lives by faith and example. In other words, despite the pressure to let our identity as Christians falter or fade, we have an opportunity to hold on to what we believe, and put into practice the faith we profess. In so many areas of everyday life, the whole question of identity is supremely important. It is also supremely important that we retain our identity as Christ's disciples, in a world that knows him not, or loves him little. Someone once asked that if you were arrested for being a Christian, would there be enough evidence to convict you? Or would the charge against you be dropped? This is worth pondering in an age where the need to prove our identity is paramount, and where the risk of losing our Christian identity is forever real. Is our identity as a disciple of Jesus Christ immediately obvious? Or is it something we hide and prefer to keep private? "Stand firm in the faith; be valiant, be strong. Take strength from the grace of God which is ours in Christ Jesus." A PRAYER FOR THE DAY God most holy, we give you thanks for bringing us out of the shadow of night into the light of morning. We ask you for the joy of spending this day in your service, so that when evening comes, we may once more give you thanks, through Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord. Amen. From: Common Order (Church of Scotland), Edinburgh 1994, 517 THE PRAYERS OF INTERCESSION God of all goodness and grace: grant your blessing on the world, that your kingdom may come, and your will be done on earth, as in heaven.... God of all goodness and grace: grant your blessing on the Church, that your people may bring light where there is darkness, and be bearers of life and love.... God of all goodness and grace: grant your blessing on our country and on all our national institutions, that the forces of goodness and truth may flourish, and increase among us.... God of all goodness and grace: grant your blessing on all in need, and on all for whom this day brings no radiant hope, that they may know your peace, with them, among them, and within..... God of all goodness and grace: accept the prayers we humbly offer you, and answer them according to your will; through Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord. Amen. A CONCLUDING PRAYER Teach us, good Lord, to serve you as you deserve; to give and not to count the cost; to fight and not to heed the wounds; to toil and not to seek for rest; to labour and not to ask for any reward save that of knowing that we do your will; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. THE BLESSING May the love of the Father enfold us, the wisdom of the sun enlighten us, the fire of the Spirit inflame us; and may the blessing of God rest upon us and abide with us, now and evermore. Amen. |
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Sunday 1 August 2021
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TRINITY 9
A CULTURE OF BLAME It is often said today that we live in "a culture of blame." In other words, when something goes wrong, and when circumstances conspire against us, it must be someone's fault, and they must be held accountable. It is also claimed that this "culture of blame" has created a climate of fear, in which people are afraid to express an opinion or take some action for fear of the abuse they might face. There are times when it is right to apportion blame to someone. There are also times when this only makes a situation worse. When Jesus and his disciples met a man blind from birth (St. John 9: 1-18), the disciples' first response was to apportion blame for his lack of sight. "Rabbi, why was this man born blind?" they asked Jesus. "Who sinned, this man or his parents?" At this time, it was thought that a natural disability was the outcome of God's punishment on a sin or sins committed by the person themselves, or by their parents, or by an ancestor in a previous generation. Their question was consistent with the thinking of that time. In brief, their first response was to try and blame someone for the man's plight. Jesus dismissed their curiosity, and said that the man was born blind so that God's healing power could be displayed in him. The situation gave Jesus an opportunity to reveal God's power at work, and so he started at once the process of giving the man his sight. While the man celebrated this experience, and his friends and neighbours looked on in amazement, the Pharisees were much less complimentary, as Jesus had performed this act of healing on the Sabbath. What Jesus did was to stifle an academic debate as to why the man was born blind, and get to the root of the problem by displaying the compassion at the very heart of God. Jesus avoided the question of blame, and did something practical - namely, giving the blind man the precious gift of sight. In modern times, we are always anxious to discover who or what is to blame for a particular circumstance or circumstances. To try and achieve this, we set up enquiries, committees, and other agencies, usually chaired by a highly-respected judge or public figure, who make a judgement on the evidence in due course. If we disagree with the findings of the enquiry, there is normally an appeal to conduct another one. It is true that we are living in "a culture of blame," and that someone must be held responsible for something that should not have happened. This "culture of blame" is reinforced by the well-established practice of taking people to court for the slightest error on their part, seeking compensation for what they are believed to have done wrong. Seeing the man blind from birth, the first response of the disciples was to raise the question of blame. "Rabbi, why was this man born blind? Who sinned, this man or his parents?" Jesus brushed this aside and declined to speculate on who was responsible. Instead, he saw the blind man's plight as an opportunity to display the healing power of a loving God. This story is a lesson to all of us, that while there are times when it is a sacred duty to apportion blame, there are also times when the first and the best course of action is to do as Jesus did: to forget about blame, and reveal the true compassion that is at the very heart of God. "We have set our hope on the living God, who is the Saviour of all." A PRAYER FOR THE DAY Almighty God, without you we are not able to please you. Mercifully grant that your Holy Spirit may in all things direct and rule our hearts; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who is alive and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen. From: Common Order (Church of Scotland), Edinburgh 1994, 676 A PRAYER FOR THIS WEEK God of all goodness and grace, giver of every good and perfect gift: we give thanks for all your goodness and loving kindness to us and to all people, and for your constant care over all creation. We bless you for our creation, preservation, and all the richest blessings of this life; but most of all for your precious gift of love, freely given and without restriction or restraint. In these times of continuing uncertainty, help us to put our whole trust in you, to faithfully follow wherever you lead, and to rejoice in that love divine which knows no borders or boundaries, brought to us in Jesus Christ our Lord, to whom, with you and the Holy Spirit, be all honour and glory, for ever and ever. Amen. Gracious God, source of all life and love, we ask your blessing on our world, our nation, our church and community, and on everything that is best about us, especially as this pandemic continues and afflicts so many of your people. Enfold us and surround us with your presence; assure us that your love will never let us go; and may your saving power be at work among us and among all nations, now and at all times; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord. Amen. A CONCLUDING PRAYER Almighty God, to whom all hearts are open, all desires known, and from whom no secrets are hidden: hear the prayers of your people, and answer them as may be best for us, and for those for whom we have prayed, in the name of your beloved Son, our Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen. THE BLESSING May the love of the Lord Jesus draw us to himself; may the power of the Lord Jesus strengthen us in his service; may the joy of the Lord Jesus fill our souls; and may the blessing of God Almighty, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, be with us and abide with us always. Amen. |
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Sunday 25 July 2021
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TRINITY 8
SPIRITUAL SIGNPOSTS "Church buildings - great and small - are visible reminders that we have souls." ( Archbishop John Habgood 1927-2019) With many people having a summer 'staycation' this year, there are plenty of places to visit and much scenic beauty to captivate interest and attention. It has been said that among the rich treasures of Scotland are our ruined abbeys, monasteries and nunneries, as well as ecclesiastical buildings that are still in use. A study of our Christian building heritage tells us much about the highly-skilled craftsmanship that prevailed at a time when modern technology did not exist, and when some specialists would spend their entire working life on one or two projects. We may applaud the building science of today, but even a cursory glance at some of our Church buildings will amaze us, and show us that previous generations were outstanding in their craft. Many buildings of the Christian faith today are tourist attractions. The great Border Abbeys bring visitors to walk through them, and see for themselves their architectural merit. Nearer to home, the roofless Crossraguel Abbey, near Maybole, is an essential location for those who wish to stop and study its architectural features, and perhaps investigate something of its history. These structures were not built as tourist attractions. The original builders and craftsmen created these places as centres of Christian devotion and pilgrimage, showing the people of their day 'How great is God!' or 'How great thou art!' These places were intended to express the glory of God in a highly visible way. Over the centuries, and for various reasons, they have evolved into tourist attractions, and for many today, the buildings of the Christian faith are preserved in order to bolster the tourist and the heritage industry. There are others, however, who see our ecclesiatical buildings in another way. Someone has described them as 'spiritual signposts' - as pointers to the God who created the heavens and the earth, and formed us in his own image. A former Archbishop of York said that our Church buildings are a visible sign of God's presence in the community, and point us away from ourselves to 'a sense of the eternal.' In other words, they are a reminder of the spiritual dimension to human life in an age where Christian influence has declined, and where unbelief and indifference have increased. Our buildings may be much more than 'playing a heritage game.' They may maintain a vision of God's glory, and an awareness of his loving presence 'in a less Godly age, but one that needs him even more.' In this holiday season, we may visit a place of Christian devotion, whether a ruined abbey or a country kirk. Would we see that place merely as a tourist attraction? Or would we regard it as a visible sign of God's presence in the community - a spiritual signpost pointing to the One in whom we live and move and have our being? Perhaps we would see a church as a blend of both. "The Lord your God is in your midst. He will rejoice over you and be glad; he will show you his love once more." A PRAYER FOR THE DAY Eternal God and Father, you create us by your power and redeem us by your love: guide and strengthen us by your Spirit, that we may give ourselves today in love and service to one another and to you; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. From: Common Order (Church of Scotland), Edinburgh 1994, 517 A PRAYER IN TIMES OF NATURAL DISASTER Almighty and eternal God, you are our refuge and our strength, an ever-present help in all our trouble. We pray for the victims of natural disaster, and especially for those affected by recent flooding in parts of Europe and by fierce fires in North America. Accept our compassion for the suffering; bless those working hard to restore order; and grant that in the fullness of time broken lives may be mended and healed, and a new sense of calm and peace prevail; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. A PRAYER FOR THOSE IN NEED O Lord our God, you hold the whole world in the strength of your everlasting arms. As we remember all those in need today, give us grace to tend the sick, to support the dying, to comfort the bereaved, to feed the hungry, to ease the anguish of those who suffer from poverty, persecution and disease, and to be the true servants of all who call upon us for healing and help.... Look in mercy on all mankind. Give your light in darkness, and assure your people in every place that you hold all souls in life; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. A CONCLUDING PRAYER God of hopefulness and joy, give us a cheerful sense of our blessings. Make us content with all that you provide for us. Teach us that nothing can hurt us since you hold us in your kind and loving hands. Chase from our hearts all gloomy thoughts, and make us glad with the brightness of hope; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. From: Common Order (Church of Scotland), Edinburgh 1994, 460 THE BLESSING May the blessing of God Almighty, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, rest upon us, and remain with us, now and for evermore. Amen. |
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Sunday 18 July 2021
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TRINITY 7
A THOUGHT FOR SEA SUNDAY For the last two weeks, the flag has been flying at half mast at the RNLI station in Girvan. This is in tribute to my second cousin, John Miller McClymont, who passed away peacefully at Ayr Hospital on 1st July 2021. Throughout his life, Ian loved everything about the sea, and could never wait to get out on it. Indeed, "the rougher the sea, the more he enjoyed it." For almost thirty years, Ian was actively involved with Girvan Lifeboat, and was latterly Chairman of Girvan Lifeboat, having experienced many challenges and dangers in the course of his long service. This message is dedicated to Ian with affection and with fondest memories of a true gentleman and inspiration to so many. _____________________________________________________ One of life's worst experiences must be a storm at sea. We can only try and imagine the fear, if not the panic, of those who must face them, and attempt to navigate through them. Nevertheless, a storm at sea is a fact of life, and "those who go down to the sea in ships," have to expect them. Even those who take holidays on modern cruise liners have spoken of times when the vessel has encountered rough seas, causing both disturbance and distress. In St. Mark's Gospel (4: 35-41), Jesus and his disciples were on a boat crossing Lake Galilee - a stretch of water notorious for its storms that arose without warning and with terrifying force. All of a sudden, during their journey, one of those storms arose, and with so much force that the vessel threatened to sink, due to the amount of water pouring into it. Jesus was sleeping on a cushion or pillow at the stern, the usual place for a distinguished visitor or passenger. Not only that, we are told that Jesus managed to stay asleep during the storm and the panic it created in the hearts of his disciples. The reason for this is unknown. It has been suggested that Jesus slept deliberately in order to test the faith of the disciples, and to see if they trusted him sufficiently to get them through this emergency. It has also been suggested that Jesus was exhausted by the time spent teaching prior to boarding the boat, and that a period of sound, uninterrupted sleep was absolutely necessary. We will never know why Jesus slept through the initial commotion and why the battering of the boat and the panic of the disciples apparently did not disturb him. Whatever the reason, the terrified disciples woke Jesus and pleaded with him to do something about their plight. Jesus proceeded to end the storm and restore the sea to calm, while at the same time rebuking the disciples for their lack of faith in this time of crisis. They had spent so much time in his company that they still could not surrender their trust to him in a wholehearted way. We can take this story as it stands and see it as a marvellous miracle performed by Jesus on Lake Galilee - an event that took place once at a certain point in history, but of no further significance for us. We can read this story, however, in a much wider and less literal context, and see it as having a particular meaning for us today. In this way, we can regard Jesus as the one who is our sure defence in the storms of everyday life: sickness, unemployment, fear, anxiety, grief, and in the other adverse winds that inevitably come our way. With one quick word from Jesus, the storm abated and the sea became calm. This is surely extremely comforting for us when life's storms threaten to engulf us. If Jesus can calm a storm at sea with one word, he can also calm the storms of life with which we are all familiar. In other words, the calming of the storm is not an event that happened once, but something that happens today for each of us. In the storms of life, we can still find serenity and peace in the presence of Jesus, who reveals to us a Father from whose love we cannot drift. "Without him (Jesus) we are defenceless; with him we are safe." (William Barclay) Let this be a lesson to us as we mark Sea Sunday! "Those who go down to the sea in ships, who do business on the great waters, they see the works of the Lord, and his wonders in the deep." A PRAYER FOR THE DAY Holy God, faithful and unchanging, our refuge, our rock, our everlasting hope: as we commemorate Sea Sunday today, we confess that in the storms of life we are tempted to lose faith in you; and that in adverse winds we often go adrift, not knowing what to do, or to whom we turn. Grant us your forgiveness, we pray, and bring us safely to shore in the power of your love. And as we pass each moment of our day, be our defence in every time of trouble, and, in that richer, fuller life to come, bring us safely into that quiet haven of our heart's desire, which is our true home; through him who is the anchor of our souls, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen A PRAYER FOR SEAFARERS Almighty God, ever faithful and true, as we commemorate Sea Sunday, we pray for those whose lives are affected by the sea.... We commend to your loving care all those who sail the seas, whether by daylight or darkness, especially those known to us and loved by us, presently out in the waters of the world.... We pray for those who serve in the Royal Navy and Merchant Navy; for the lifeboat service, and for air-sea rescue; for coastguards and for lifeguards; for all who work in docks and harbours; and for our fishermen, who gather in the rich harvest of the sea, at great personal risk.... Guard them in danger; sustain them in loneliness; uplift them in weariness; support them in sickness; and enfold them all in the net of your everlasting love.... We pray for those who minister to the physical and spiritual needs of those who work at sea, especially for medical staff and support workers, for chaplains, and for those engaged with the Sailors' Society and The Mission to Seamen, that you may guide them in their duties, and give them the vision to see in those whom they serve, the likeness of your Son, our Saviour Christ.... We ask these prayers through Jesus Christ, Lord of the seas, and Pilot of our souls; to whom with you, Father, and the Holy Spirit, be glory and praise, now and for ever. Amen. THE BLESSING Grace, mercy, and peace, from God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, be among us, and remain with us always. Amen. |
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Sunday 11 July 2021
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TRINITY 6
INTERRUPTIONS: BANE OR BLESSING? Over the last two weeks, the tennis tournament at Wimbledon has frequently been interrupted by rain, causing the roof to close on Centre Court and on Court Number One. This process takes some time, thereby interrupting the match, and allowing the players to take a break. Life is full of interruptions. We may be working on some project, or tidying up the garden, or engaged in some other work that demands concentration, when the 'phone rings, or someone calls unexpectedly to see us. If we are doing written work, the least interruption can affect our train of thought and make it difficult, if not impossible, to focus our attention fully again on what we were doing. Whatever the nature of the interruption, these can be exceedingly frustrating, and have an adverse impact on our stress level. Throughout his public ministry, Jesus was prone to interruptions. A classic example is found in St. Mark 10: 46-52, where a blind beggar, a man called Bartimaeus, interrupted Jesus while he was passing through Jericho on his way to Jerusalem. This was a week or so before the crucifixion and Jesus and the large crowd with him were probably making their way to the Passover festival. We may be certain that by this time Jesus's mind was fully occupied with the drama that lay ahead of him. Bartimaeus wanted Jesus to give him his sight, and while the crowd tried to silence him, Bartimaeus shouted all the louder. Nothing was going to stop him from meeting Jesus, and of having the opportunity of getting what he wanted most. On hearing his insistence, Jesus called him over, asked him what he wanted, and granted his request. Now the blind beggar gained his sight. Interruptions may try our patience to the limit. Nevertheless, the next time we are exasperated by interruptions, let us remember that their frequency may be a compliment, and indicate a measure of how much trust people have in us, and of how much we contribute to our common life. The American humorist, writer and illustrator, Don Herold, once said that "Interruptions are the spice of life," while Henri Nouwen, the Dutch priest and spiritual writer, claimed that he spent his whole life complaining about interruptions - until he discovered that interruptions were his work. One of the worst things that could happen to us would be to become so disengaged from other people that no one would ever bother to trouble us, much preferring to leave us alone. A ringing 'phone or a doorbell may be a nuisance, but if this stopped altogether, our lives would be much poorer. How do we regard interruptions? Are they a bane or are they a blessing? Gracious God, grant that the interruptions that come our way may never be seen as an interference, but as an opportunity to listen, and to share the joys, the cares and the sorrows of others; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. A PRAYER FOR THE DAY Guide us, Lord, in all our doings with your gracious favour, and further us with your continual help; that in all our works, begun, continued, and ended in you, we may glorify your holy name, and by your mercy attain everlasting life; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. From: Common Order (Church of Scotland|), Edinburgh 1994, 465 A GENERAL PRAYER Most gracious God, ground of our hope, on this, your holy day, your gift to us, take the world and all its people into your tender loving care. Prosper its life, protect its environment, heal its divisions, supply its needs; and may your holy peace come and rest upon our hearts, for the glory of your name; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. A PRAYER FOR THE EVENING Almighty and everlasting God, in whom we live and move and have our being: as evening comes and the day departs, help us to give you our thanks and praise, to put our whole trust in your mercy, to rejoice in your faithfulness towards us and to rest content in your peace; and in the morning, when the new day dawns, prepare us to serve you in heart, mind and spirit; for Jesus Christ our Lord's sake. Amen. THE BLESSING May the blessing of God Almighty, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, rest upon us, and remain with us, now and for evermore. Amen. |
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Sunday 4 July 2021
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TRINITY 5
THE ART OF SELF-DISCIPLINE In spite of current restrictions, a considerable amount of sport has taken place in recent weeks. At present, we are midway through the annual tennis tournament at Wimbledon, and also nearing the end of the European Football Championships, more popularly known as the Euros. Later this month, the Olympic Games will finally get underway in Japan, though the decision to hold them this year has not been without controversy. All over the world, participants have eagerly been in training, and have had an extra year to do so, following the postponement of the Games from last year. In 1 Corinthians 9: 19-27, the apostle Paul refers to the 'Games' - not the Olympic Games, but more likely the Isthmian Games that took place in Corinth, said to be second only to the Olympics. Paul was always fascinated by the image of the athlete, who had to invest much energy and enthusiasm into their training in order to win the contest. In other words, to win the race, the athlete had to become a master of 'the art of self-discipline' to gain an earthly crown. How much more, then, should Christians discipline themselves in order to gain the crown of eternal life? In Paul's mind, every Christian must cultivate 'the art of self-discipline' and apply it in their daily lives. To fight the good fight of faith, Christians must discipline their bodies: physical unfitness has been shown to be at the root of many emotional and spiritual problems. If Christian people are going to bring their very best to any task, they must be fit. They must also discipline their minds: they must never become incapable of critical thought, for the massive problems of today will never be solved by slipshod thinking. And they must also discipline their spirits, facing life's sorrows with serenity, its temptations with strength, and its disappointments with courage and good grace. Just as the athlete requires a strict regime of discipline in order to win the race and gain an earthly crown, so the Christian needs to cultivate and practise 'the art of self-discipline' to gain the crown that never fades. In our own Christian living, let us not be among those who always seek the easy way, but be counted among the highly-disciplined, who fight the good fight of faith with complete self-control, always pressing on to gain the crown of eternal bliss - the prize of eternal life! O Lord our God, as we fight the good fight of faith, teach us the art of self-discipline, in body, mind, and spirit, that in the race of life we may gain the prize of eternal bliss; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. A PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING Almighty God, Father of all mercies, we, your unworthy servants, give you most humble and hearty thanks for all your goodness and loving kindness to us and to all people. We bless you for our creation, preservation, and all the blessings of this life; but above all for your immeasurable love in the redemption of the world by our Lord Jesus Christ, for the means of grace, and for the hope of glory. Give us, we pray, such a sense of all your mercies, that with truly thankful hearts, we may show forth your praise, not only with our lips but in our lives, by giving up ourselves to your service, and by walking before you in holiness and righteousness all our days; through Jesus Christ our Lord, to whom, with you and the Holy Spirit, be all honour and glory, for ever and ever. Amen. From: Common Order (Church of Scotland), Edinburgh 1994, 498-499 A PRAYER FOR THE DAY O God, by whose providence we are kept, by whose grace we are directed, by whose love we are redeemed: grant that in everything we do we may be guided by your Spirit, so that we may make this day an offering of love as well as of duty; and when evening comes and the day departs and its duties and demands are finished, may your holy peace come and rest upon us; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. A GENERAL INTERCESSION AND A CLOSING PRAYER Into your loving care and protection, O God, we now commend our world, our Church, our nation, and your people here and in every place, that all may live in the light of your truth, and always walk in the way of love; through Jesus Christ, our Lord and Saviour. Amen. God be in my head, and in my understanding; God be in mine eyes, and in my looking; God be in my mouth, and in my thinking; God be at mine end, and at my departing. Amen. THE BLESSING The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us all. Amen. |
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Sunday 27 June 2021
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TRINITY 4
THE TEN LEPERS If Covid-19 has been the scourge of our age, leprosy was the scourge of the ancient world. Someone afflicted with a rash or skin condition was required by Jewish law to present themselves to a priest for examination, and the priest would determine whether they were to be declared ceremonially or ritually unclean. If leprosy was diagnosed, the person suffering from this contagious skin disease was forbidden to associate with the general community, and had to live in isolation to prevent its transmission and its becoming an epidemic. In St. Luke's Gospel (17: 11-19), Jesus was on the border between Galilee and Samaria, when he was met by a band of ten lepers. In strict accordance with Jewish law, the lepers stood far off, though no precise distance was prescribed. This group came to Jesus with desperate longing in their hearts: they wanted to be cured and rid of this disease that carried with it so much stigma. Jesus gave them what they wanted. He healed them. However, only one of the ten - a Samaritan, a foreigner, an outcast with whom the Jews had no dealings - came back to give thanks. The other nine, having got what they wanted, walked away. The story is an illustration of human ingratitude at its worst. After Jesus had performed an amazing act of healing, and rid the ten of their illness and the stigma that went with it, only one of them - and the one least likely to do so - took the trouble to give thanks. Is it not still true today that many people, having got what they want, never bother to give thanks or show any sign of appreciation? Shakespeare penned these lines in As You Like It (Act 1, scene VI): "Blow, blow, thou winter wind, Thou art not so unkind As man's ingratitude." Even the cold, harsh winter wind is less cruel than the callous ingratitude of a human being! The story has a much more profound lesson for us. Often we are ungrateful to God, after we have gone to him in extreme circumstances. In a time of crisis, we pray to God with intensity. Time passes, and we forget about God and the possibility of a word of thanks, or showing our appreciation in some way. Like the ten lepers, we go to God when we are in a dire situation, but ignore him when all is well with us. For many people, "God is not the first refuge but the last resort." He is only the remedy for life's calamities. We have so much in life for which to be thankful. Through every day of the present pandemic, God has blessed us in many and various ways. We have lived under restrictions, but countless souls have been working away publicly and privately to try and save lives and protect our wellbeing. If our own health has remained unaffected, then this is a special blessing, worthy of our heartfelt thanks and praise. With the summer holiday season here, even if travel is limited, we can still enjoy the beautiful countryside around us, and learn to appreciate our own country, indeed our own district, in a new way. We have so much for which to be thankful, so let us not leave our communion with God to moments of desperation. May our gratitude to God in Jesus Christ be an ongoing part of our daily devotions, and not reserved for times of crisis and panic. May the Lord our God never be "for emergencies only." "Our help is in the name of the Lord, maker of heaven and earth." A PRAYER FOR THE DAY Almighty and ever-living God, whose glory is the only purpose of our worship: as we humbly enter into your presence, calm our restless spirits and grant us peace within, that we may know ourselves to be your people and your to be our sovereign God. And as we make confession of our sins and of all that is unworthy in our lives, gently correct the error of our ways, and raise us to new heights of holiness where you are seen in your glory and known in your love; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. A GENERAL PRAYER God of grace and glory, whose Spirit guides us in our prayers: hear us as we pray for the Church, the world, and the nation at this time; for the community, and for those we love, especially for any in need or affliction.... Bless, preserve and keep them in your care; and as we remember and give thanks for those gone before us to be with you, keep us in unbroken fellowship with your Church in heaven and on earth, and bring us at last to glory everlasting; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. A PRAYER FOR OURSELVES O God, in whose sight we live and labour, and in whose hearing we speak and pray: as we give thanks for the blessings of this life and for your constant care over all creation, sanctify us in body, mind, and spirit, that we may live according to your will, and show your benevolence to all people; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. THE BLESSING May the grace of Christ attend us, the love of God surround us, the Holy Spirit keep us, this day and for ever. Amen. |
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Sunday 20 June 2021
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TRINITY 3
EDEN AND EARTH Among our most popular hymns is All Things Bright and Beautiful, which is sung on many occasions, and especially at this time of the year. This hymn was originally written for children by Cecil Frances Alexander (1818-1895), and by the use of pictorial language, it explains the doctrine of creation, proclaiming God as 'maker of heaven and earth.' The flowers and fruits, trees and meadows, mountains and rivers, summer and winter - 'The Lord God made them all.' The verb made is the key to the text, and the hymn was intended to teach young children one of the basic truths of the Christian faith. One obvious sign of God's activity in creation today is the beauty of our gardens. At this time of year, our gardens are in bloom, with lovely flowers, plants, shrubs and other foliage, providing a rich variety of colour, as well as giving us a place for rest and relaxation. Every so often we hear a lawnmower manicuring the grass, or see someone out weeding or watering plants, keeping their garden in presentable form. According to the Book of Genesis (2: 4-15), when God created Adam, the first man, he was placed in a garden - the Garden of Eden. He was not to sit there and soak in the scenery, but was instructed by God to "till the garden" - to nurture it, to work in it, to maintain it and take care of it. For us today, a garden may be a welcome oasis of peace in a pandemic-ridden world, but for Adam, it was something to take charge of, and maintain to the highest standards. (Genesis 2: 15) Adam stands for Everyman or Everyperson, and one lesson from this ancient story is that the Garden of Earth is a place we are charged by God to care for and protect. It is certainly a place of work, but we are not to carelessly abuse it or needlessly destroy it. As Psalm 24: 1 reminds us: "The earth belongs to the Lord, and all that it contains." This means that in reality we are only God's tenants in this earthly garden - not its owners, who may treat it as they wish. We are stewards who will one day be called to account, as to whether we have cared for God's earthly garden, or turned it into a wilderness or place of waste. The modern hymnwriter, Frederick Pratt Green (1903-2000), tells us that "God in such love for us lent us this planet." The Garden of Earth has only been lent to us, and we have a God-given duty as tenants to protect it, and use it in the most careful manner. This responsibility is recognised today by Christians and countless others across the world, and whether or not we agree with all that is said and done in the name of environmental protection, there is a sacred duty laid on Christians to protect their "earthly home" as responsible stewards of God's creation. Only by so doing can it be passed on for the full benefit of those who come after us. We may sum up our message today in the last verse of one of Frederick Pratt Green's hymns: "Earth is the Lord's: it is ours to enjoy it, ours, as God's stewards, to farm and defend. From its pollution, misuse, and destruction, good Lord, deliver us, world without end!" Let us "till the garden" of earth wisely and well, and gain the approval of God, its creator, sustainer and ultimate owner! "Seek the Lord while he may be found; call upon him while he is near." Almighty and everlasting God, whose glory is the only purpose of our worship: as we humbly acknowledge your majesty and our calling to be your people, we confess that we have failed you in so many ways, seeking first our own will, our own pleasures, our own desires, rather than seeking first your kingdom. We are not worthy to be your servants, nor are we deserving of your grace and favour to us.... Therefore, forgive what we have been, help us to amend what we are, and bless what we shall be; and keep us always on the right path, the path that leads finally to you; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. A PRAYER FOR THE DAY Lord, set your blessing on us as we begin this day together. Confirm us in the truth by which we rightly live; confront us with the truth from which we wrongly turn. We ask not for what we want but for what you know we need, as we offer this day and ourselves for you and to you; through Jesus Christ our Saviour. Amen. From: Common Order (Church of Scotland), Edinburgh 1994, 519 A PRAYER FOR THIS WEEK Almighty God, present to your people everywhere, whose Spirit guides us in our prayers and devotions: take the Church of Christ into your care and keeping, and make it into a fit instrument for the Gospel.... Take the world into your care and keeping, and teach the nations the things that belong to their peace.... Take this nation into your care and keeping, and renew the spiritual life of all its people.... Take the sick, the suffering, and the sorrowing, and all in any kind of affliction or need, into your care and keeping, and holy them fast in your everlasting arms, and in your unfailing love.... Take all people into your care and keeping, every moment of their day, every day of their life, making them wise and worthy stewards of your creation; through Jesus Christ, our Saviour and Lord. Amen. THE BLESSING May the love of the Father enfold us, the wisdom of the Son enlighten us, the fire of the Spirit inflame us; and may the blessing of God rest upon us and abide with us, now and evermore. Amen. |
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Sunday 13 June 2021
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TRINITY 2
THE MUSICAL CHURCH The absence of congregational singing during the pandemic has been a source of regret to many. It has not been permitted, as scientific evidence has shown that the process is a potential health hazard, but many people have keenly felt its loss and now eagerly await its return. Through singing, we can express a range of feelings and emotions that cannot be effectively achieved by the spoken word. From the beginning, music has been an integral part of Christian worship, and a means of giving praise to God. For example, in the Old Testament, the writer of Psalm 150, the very last Psalm, urges every voice in heaven and on earth, and every musical instrument that human ingenuity has devised, to join in, and swell the praise of the living God. In the New Testament, in Colossians 3: 16, St. Paul issues this instruction to the Christians at Colossae: "With psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, sing from the heart in gratitude to God." We can conclude that from the very beginning, the Christian Church was a musical Church, something it inherited from Jewish worship. The gratitude of the Church for God's mighty acts in redemption has always been expressed in word and sacred song. It is hardly surprising, therefore, that throughout the centuries, the Church has accumulated a vast treasure-store of music, ranging from moving orchestral works to simple songs and melodies. Even those who would not normally describe themselves as Christian have found their hearts stirred by the singing of a hymn, or some other piece of Church music. In churches today, the organ is probably the instrument we are most familiar with, whether an elaborate one, with pipes in a grand casing, or a small, electric one, producing an effective sound. In Jewish and early Christian worship, there was an amazing range of instruments used, as Psalm 150 clearly indicates: the harp, the lyre, the flute and stringed instruments, cymbals, drums and tambourines, to name but a few. It has been said, however, that the finest instrument we possess is "the human voice." This may come as a complete surprise or shock to those who say they cannot sing, and are convinced that this only applies to the musically-gifted. Nevertheless, it has been claimed that "the human voice" is the finest of all instruments, and that God will even hear our "inarticulate groans" and use them for his glory. The truth of the matter is that music has always been at the heart of Jewish and Christian worship, and no doubt will always remain so. The psalms, hymns and spiritual songs are not placed in a service to lengthen it or fill space, but as a means of enriching the whole act of worship through music - which, both inside and outside of a Church context, is also proving now to be therapeutic and conducive to personal well-being. Furthermore, in many places in the Church of Scotland, apart from reciting the Lord's Prayer and perhaps some other limited responses, the singing of psalms, hymns and spiritual songs is the only major contribution the congregation makes to the service, and is thus a substantial one. The early Christian Church was unquestionably a musical Church. Given the significance of signing in our worship, let us use the instrument that God has given to each of us - "the human voice" - to praise the living God, in public (when it is allowed) and in private (whenever we choose). "Be still, for the presence of the Lord, the Holy One, is here." Almighty and eternal God, you speak to us in the call of duty and in the still, small voice of calm. As we quietly seek your presence, come to us in the fullness of your love, forgiving us those things of which our conscience is afraid, and granting us those things for which we are not worthy to ask, save through the merits of your Son, our Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen. A PRAYER FOR OURSELVES Loving God of the seasons, as spring now turns to summer, open our eyes to the beauty around us, and make us truly thankful for the different seasons of the year, each fulfilling our hope and our need. So may our children and those who succeed us benefit from the beauty of the natural world, a world that you have created for us; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. A PRAYER FOR THOSE IN NEED God of all grace and comfort, hear our prayer for those who are unhappy, who are lonely or neglected, who are damaged or abused, or whose life is darkened by fear or pain or sorrow. Give us grace to help them when we can. Give them faith to look beyond their troubles to you, their heavenly Father and unfailing friend, that they may take up the threads of life again and go on their way with fresh courage and renewed hope; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. From: Common Order (Church of Scotland), Edinburgh 1994, 489 A PRAYER FOR TODAY God, ever-living and ever-loving, whose gift to us is this new day: help us to use it wisely and as you will, so that when daylight fades and evening comes, we may rest content in your peace, with something accomplished for you; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. Into your care and protection, O God, we now commend our Church, our world, our nation, and your people here and everywhere, that all may live in the light of truth, and always walk in the way for love; for Jesus Christ our Lord's sake. Amen. THE BLESSING May the grace of God attend us, the love of God surround us, the Holy Spirit keep us, this day and for ever. Amen. |
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Sunday 6 June 2021
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TRINITY 1
PRAYING FOR OUR LEADERS In less than fifty days, the Olympic Games, postponed from last year, should be underway in Japan. However, opposition to the games is escalating and street marches are taking place to try and have the Games postponed once again. Even Japan's top scientific adviser has warned the government that it would be "not normal" to hold them under present pandemic circumstances, but the IOC (International Olympic Committee) is determined that the Games proceed next month as planned. The question of how to balance the pursuit of pleasure with public health and safety is a difficult one, but a decision must be made, which will inevitably not please everyone. Over the last fifteen months, our own leaders have had to make difficult decisions, some of which have proved unpopular and some of which have proved questionable. No doubt in due course the public enquiries will bring the whole matter to the surface, and arguments will rage as to what was done, and as to what ought not to have been done. To be someone in authority at this time must carry an enormous weight of responsibility, and whether or not we agree with their political creed, our leaders have had to make what have been called "tough and necessary decisions." We often hear people say that there is nothing we can do, and we simply have to accept what we are told and get on with it. The New Testament provides us with guidance in the situation in which we presently find ourselves. Without any ambiguity, we are told to pray for those in authority. In 1 Timothy 2: 1-7 there is a specific command for Timothy to pray for kings and emperors, and for all in positions of authority. This should be of primary importance in our public prayers, if not in our private devotions. All through its early days of persecution, the Christian Church never neglected its duty to pray for the emperor and for his subordinate kings and governors, even if they were determined to stamp out Christianity and prove hostile to the faith. As Professor William Barclay puts it: "The Church always regarded it as a duty and an obligation to pray for those set in authority over the kingdoms of the earth, and brought even its persecutors before the throne of grace." In modern times, the duty to pray for those in authority has not lessened or disappeared. This is an essential part of the debt the Christian owes to the state, whether Christian or pagan, religious or anti-religious, just or unjust. We are not thinking here of party politics. We are thinking of those in positions of power and influence over our lives, irrespective of their political colour, whose decisions at this time are, quite literally, a matter of life and death. The scientists provide the evidence: the civil power makes the decisions. To pray for those in authority, does not mean that we are obliged to agree with everything they say, or to ascribe flattery and unnecessary fawning to those least worthy of it. What it means is to hold before God all those in high office, with the prayer (especially at this time) that their judgment may be sound, and their difficult decisions be for the lasting benefit of all God's people. O Lord our God, as we face this time of ongoing pandemic, when difficult decisions must be made, we pray for all in positions of authority, that those who lead us may never mislead us, and that guided by your Spirit, they may be blessed with a right judgment in all things; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. PRAYERS FOR THE DAY God most holy, we give you thanks for bringing us out of the shadow of night into the light of morning. We ask you for the joy of spending this day in your service, so that when evening comes, we may once more give you thanks; through Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord. Amen. Eternal God and Father, you create us by your power and redeem us by your love: guide and strengthen us by your Spirit, that we may give ourselves today in love and service to one another and to you; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. From: Common Order (Church of Scotland), Edinburgh 1994, 111-112 A PRAYER OF INTERCESSION God of the morning, God of this new day, our refuge, our rock, our everlasting hope: We pray for the Church in this parish and throughout the world, that your people may be a beacon of light in a troubled and uncertain world.... We pray for our community, our country, and for all the nations of the world, that they may live in harmony and peace.... We pray for those in need and for all who suffer at this time, that the sick may be cared for, the anxious and afraid reassured, and the bereaved comforted.... We pray for all affected by this virus, that your healing hand may touch them, and that those who care for them may do so gently and lovingly.... We pray for researchers and others, looking for ways to save lives, that your Spirit may guide them, and their work be crowned with success.... All this we ask through Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord and Saviour. Amen. THE BLESSING God the Holy Trinity make us strong in faith, and hope, and love. And the blessing of God Almighty, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, be among us, and remain with us always. Amen. |
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Sunday 30 May 2021
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TRINITY SUNDAY
On Trinity Sunday, the Christian Church marks, not an event, but a doctrine or teaching, acknowledging the God we worship as Father, as Son, and as Holy Spirit. We are not thinking here of three separate 'gods', but of the one God, who makes himself known to us in this threefold way. This word 'Trinity' is not found in Scripture. It is said, however, that the threefold nature of God is implicit in some Old Testament texts, and explicit in New Testament passages, as in St. Paul's blessing: "The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with you all" (2 Corinthians 13: 14) The Trinity is the foundation of much of our worship. Many well-known hymns refer to God as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, while blessings and benedictions follow a Trinitarian pattern. Christian baptism is administered "in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit", and when couples are joined together in Christian marriage, the same formula is used. Indeed, the Church of Scotland's constitution clearly states that the Kirk is Trinitarian in its creed, and much of what is familiar in our worship reflects this. One observer has noted that the Trinity suggests a "committee of three out to save the world." This witty way of expressing it may a helpful summary of a difficult idea! At a more profound level, the Trinity preserves the 'mystery' of God. It reminds us that we can never understand the nature or the character of God in a complete and thorough way. What we have here is a 'model' of God, but not the complete picture. His ways are not our ways, nor are his thoughts our thoughts. If we could fully understand God, as many would wish, then God would cease to be God and become a mere creature, shorn of his divine majesty and glory. The BBC has been in the news recently, but for the wrong reasons. John Reith, later Lord Reith of Stonehaven, founded the BBC, and for its first sixteen years directed it. A son of the Manse, John Reith's father was a distinguished minister of the Free Church of Scotland, and it has been said that John Reith ran the BBC like a Sunday School in Stornoway! In other words, he was strict, authoritarian and staunchly Presbyterian. One biographer of John Reith says that it is not possible to write a complete account of his life. He is so complex a figure, with varying moods and temperaments, that a detailed story of his life, with its many self-contradictions, is not a feasible project. We can only know John Reith in part. This is also true of God. On this side of eternity, we can only understand God in part, until at last our knowledge is perfect and complete. Meantime, we can think of the Trinity as the 'mystery' that preserves God's holiness, while allowing us to experience him in a threefold way: as Father, as Son, and as Holy Spirit. That said, however, Colin Morris's notion of the Holy Trinity as a "committee of three to save the world", is appealing, and a much easier way of understanding a difficult doctrine! "Holy, holy, holy is God, our sovereign Lord, who was, and is, and is to come." Blessing and honour, thanksgiving and praise, more than we can utter, more than we can conceive, be to your glorious name, O God, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, by all angels, all people, all creation, for ever and ever. Amen. A PRAYER FOR TRINITY SUNDAY Lord God Almighty, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit: we confess the self-centeredness that marks too much of our living; the partial obedience, the qualified love, the failure to reach full Christian maturity. We acknowledge these failings, and much else; and seek the grace to be moulded, according to pattern of life laid down for us in Jesus Christ our Saviour.... God the Father, pity us; God the Son, forgive us; God the Spirit, renew us; and lead us now and always in your way; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. PRAYERS FOR THIS WEEK O Trinity of love and power: fill your Church with truth and love, that she may lead us and all people to a knowledge of your salvation, and be found without fault on the day of Christ's coming.... O Trinity of love and power: give your light to all nations and peoples, that respect and forbearance may grow and flourish among them, and your peace enfold the world.... O Trinity of love and power: set free our friends and families and all those whom we love from anxiety and fear, that they may live in joy, in health, and in peace.... O Trinity of love and power: protect those who are in danger; care for those who suffer; be with all who guard our shores, defend our homes, and keep the peace. Make darkness light around them, and grant them peace.... O Trinity of love and power: keep us in the light of Christ, to shine in your world, that all may believe in you, and bring us at last to eternal light, and life, and joy with you; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. From: Common Order (Church of Scotland), Edinburgh 1994, 72-74 (Adapted) THE BLESSING God the Holy Trinity make us strong in faith, and hope, and love. And the blessing of God Almighty, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, be among us, and remain with us always. Amen. |
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