How are you today? You may be contented with a joyful heart. You may be weary and losing heart. Perhaps you're somewhere in between. However you are, have a listen to these words taken from the letter to the Hebrews, found in the Bible:
"let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy that was set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart"
The people on the picture look like they could be a bit weary. Having trudged over those sands many times myself with all manner of beach items, it can certainly wear you out!
We can be weary in all sorts of ways, but today we're going to consider Jesus, and what He has done for us in dying for us on the cross. Let's do that with our opening song, 'See His love'.
What is our response to this amazing love? There's one in our next song which is a tremendous challenge, especially when we're tempted to lose heart
Thank you, Father, for the sacrifice of the Lord Jesus Christ on the cross. Thank You that He chose the way of suffering in order that if we believe in Him we will not die but have eternal life.
Help us, Lord, to choose Your way in our lives, whatever that might mean for us.
May this service bless those who are rejoicing, energise those who are tiring and strengthen those who are struggling.
In Jesus' Name,
Amen.
Heavenly Father, as we come to you today please will you give us peace and a fresh understanding of your love for us.
Everything around us at the moment seems different and uncertain – but we thank you that you never change and that you have plans for each one of us even though it seems quite hard to understand what those plans are just now. Give us peace as we trust in you.
We pray that you will strengthen us as we grow weary of our current situations and frustrated that we cannot do things we would usually be doing at this time of year. Help us to fix our eyes on you and to listen to you as you show us what you want us to be doing.
We pray for our country and the continuing battle with coronavirus.
Please give our government, nationally and locally, wisdom as they try to manage the current situation. Give them clarity as they try to communicate their messages to all the different communities, cultures and language groups in this country.
Please give the communities around us wisdom and a willingness to comply with guidance as they continue to support each other.
We pray for those who have had to change or postpone their holiday plans – give them wisdom and a safe and relaxing break, whether at home or away.
We pray for those who don’t feel confident about travelling or staying away from home – give each one peace and relaxation at home.
We pray too for those are unable to leave their homes because they are shielding or caring for someone who is shielding – give them peace and the support that they need.
We think of our church members who are unwell – thank you that you know each one of them. Please bring them peace and healing and comfort.
Father, at this very difficult time we bring our prayers to you, confident that you will hear and answer us.
Amen
Thank you to John for our message today. As we draw to a close, let's reflect on what's been said with this beautiful song 'Worthy is the Lamb'. I pray that doing this will be a source of strength and inspiration as you consider Jesus now and in the week to come.
We would like to give thanks to John Hurst for bringing the message to us. If you would like to talk to someone about anything you have read or heard today please contact Stephen Taylor on 07902 946004 or through our website - https://goodwoodevangelicalchurch.org.uk/
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