Jackie prepared us for worship this morning by sharing some colourful photographs of her beautiful garden.
Martin then led a wonderful service in which we considered stories of Jesus. He used the beauty of math to demonstrate that God's world has pattern and order, and that the wonder of creation is such that it could not have happened by accident.
We firstly looked at the parable of the lost sheep and were reminded that we have a responsibility to do all we can to help and support those who are lost to the best of our ability; that may be to refer individuals to those who have the expertise and knowledge that we lack. In this context he referred to the new Bradford Courts Chaplaincy.
The second parable was that of the talents. Thackley folk are very familiar with this due to our annual "talents challenge"; however, Martin reminded us that sitting back and doing nothing is not an option; it is our responsibility to have a go and not be surprised that if we are successful, we'll get more work to challenge us. He encouraged us to consider what gift has God blessed us with and how might we use that gift for Him?
The third parable was that of the wedding banquet where we were reminded that all are invited but only a few are chosen. By God's grace we are forgiven our sins and God's grace is available to all; however, we cannot accept that gift if we are not prepared to change and follow the pattern and order that God has set for us.
A truly challenging and inspiring service; just right for our stewardship campaign where we are already considering how we can best serve God. May we all hear, listen and respond to what God is calling us to do. See the Methodist Church web site for more information on Living a Christian Life.
It was lovely to have Ian back with us; we thank God for his continuing recovery and continue to pray for those who are unwell and in need His support and comfort.
It was also great to have those who have been on holiday back with us, refreshed and relaxed. Our prayers are with those who are currently away on holiday.
Thanks to Verity for providing fresh tomatoes and to those who offered donations totalling £9.05 for them!
Martin then led a wonderful service in which we considered stories of Jesus. He used the beauty of math to demonstrate that God's world has pattern and order, and that the wonder of creation is such that it could not have happened by accident.
We firstly looked at the parable of the lost sheep and were reminded that we have a responsibility to do all we can to help and support those who are lost to the best of our ability; that may be to refer individuals to those who have the expertise and knowledge that we lack. In this context he referred to the new Bradford Courts Chaplaincy.
The second parable was that of the talents. Thackley folk are very familiar with this due to our annual "talents challenge"; however, Martin reminded us that sitting back and doing nothing is not an option; it is our responsibility to have a go and not be surprised that if we are successful, we'll get more work to challenge us. He encouraged us to consider what gift has God blessed us with and how might we use that gift for Him?
The third parable was that of the wedding banquet where we were reminded that all are invited but only a few are chosen. By God's grace we are forgiven our sins and God's grace is available to all; however, we cannot accept that gift if we are not prepared to change and follow the pattern and order that God has set for us.
A truly challenging and inspiring service; just right for our stewardship campaign where we are already considering how we can best serve God. May we all hear, listen and respond to what God is calling us to do. See the Methodist Church web site for more information on Living a Christian Life.
It was lovely to have Ian back with us; we thank God for his continuing recovery and continue to pray for those who are unwell and in need His support and comfort.
It was also great to have those who have been on holiday back with us, refreshed and relaxed. Our prayers are with those who are currently away on holiday.
Thanks to Verity for providing fresh tomatoes and to those who offered donations totalling £9.05 for them!