I was reminded last week of the importance of those people in our lives who lead the way to Christ.
On Thursday Graham and I attended Rev. David Mather’s funeral. It was a great celebration of the life of a man of God. I only met David a handful of times, but Graham had often told me how significant the love and support he had from David and Sylvia was at a difficult time in his life. And then going forward as Graham grew in his faith David was there encouraging him. For those who don’t know David was the Minister at Emmaus in the late 1980’s – early 1990’s at what was then called the Chatham URC.
Who are the people who have been the influencers in your spiritual journey? I remembered the prayer using the hand where each finger represented a group of people and the index finger those who point the way to Christ. As the Lord brings them to mind give Him thanks for their lives and their influence.
Also, who are the people you have influenced in their journey towards Christ? Children, grandchildren? Members of Sunday School or House Groups? As the Lord reminds you pray for them. If they are still alive ask that their faith be strengthened. If you are still in touch with them call them, email, or write. If they are no longer alive remember them and give thanks to the Lord for the way he used you in their lives.
The Bible reading at David’s funeral was Matthew 6:24-34. This passage starts:
No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and Money.
This passage is taken from the sermon on the mount and Jesus is talking about what our priorities are. He challenges us to decide who we will serve. This is shown by what we prioritise. How do we spend our time, our money? Ask yourself ‘what is really important?’
Jesus then goes on to tell people not to worry. The context is specifically looking at material needs of food and clothing but the phrase ‘who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?’ is true of any situation. What are you worried about at this time? We all know that worrying about a situation can’t make it any better, but we do it anyway. That is not to say that the situation you face is in anyway trivial.
Jesus reminds us that the Father knows what we need. He is a good and loving Father who cares for us. So, whatever your needs and concerns are, come to him in prayer. Please remember that the fellowship is also here to support you both in prayer and also (where possible) practically too. We are reminded to seek first the kingdom of heaven and God’s righteousness. Through prayer and Bible reading we engage in building God’s kingdom. This will lead us to ask him what he wants us to be doing; for each of us it will be different but there is something that we are uniquely placed to accomplish in his kingdom.
If worrying were an Olympic sport I’d be in with a chance of a medal. For me Jesus’ words at the end of this passage are so important to hold on to.
‘But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore, do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.’
It would be encouraging to hear how the Lord has been speaking to you during this time so do let us know. We look forward to welcoming any of you who are able to join us on Sunday.
Shalom
Graham and Katy Hill, Local Church Leaders