…being a young man I was ‘pounced’ on by other members of the congregation and, in fairly quick succession become a member of the choir, a Bible Study group, and had a seat on the Parochial Church Council. Rich ground for a large helping of ‘smugness á la Screwtape’!
The solution for being sinned against (perceived or real) can never be to sin back but can only ever be the free-will offering of forgiveness and love.
How do we avoid allowing the habits and actions of others to become centres for sin in our own life?
There are many other ways to enliven ‘rote’ prayers and each of us will find that which helps us focus best on the intention rather than the list. It is a good discipline to re-visit our prayer routines frequently so that they are about the life-giving Spirit and do not become a dead letter.
There is no purpose in seeking the Gifts of the Spirit in our personal piety if those around us cannot harvest the Fruits of the Spirit from our devotions
As we prepare for Lent we pause on a mountaintop to hear God’s command to listen to Jesus. How can we do that in a noise filled world and amid lifestyles that seek comfort over obedience?
With a Song in my Heart – 40 Days of Sacred Songs Easter Day To Listen: We Have a Gospel to Proclaim https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E-SPYAgCtkw We have a gospel to proclaim, good news for all throughout the earth; the gospel of a Saviour’s name: we sing his glory, tell his worth. Tell of his birth… Continue reading With a Song in my Heart – Easter Day
With a Song in my Heart – 40 Days of Sacred Songs Day 40 – Holy Saturday To Listen: Heart of Worship https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OD4tB1o6YLw When the music fades, all is stripped away, and I simply come. Longing just to bring something that’s of worth, that will bless your heart. I’ll bring you more than a… Continue reading With a Song in my Heart – Day 40 – Holy Saturday
With a Song in my Heart – 40 Days of Sacred Songs Day 39 – Good Friday To Listen: How Shall I Sing That Majesty https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5R61VZnaovs How shall I sing that majesty which angels do admire? Let dust in dust and silence lie; sing, sing, ye heavenly choir. Thousands of thousands stand around… Continue reading With a Song in my Heart – Day 39 – Good Friday
With a Song in my Heart – 40 Days of Sacred Songs Day 38 – Maundy Thursday To Listen: An Upper Room https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9wjzh71guMg An upper room did our Lord prepare for those he loved until the end: and his disciples still gather there, to celebrate their risen friend. A lasting gift Jesus gave his own:… Continue reading With a Song in my Heart – Day 38 – Maundy Thursday
Suffolk Vicar 