10 am Holy Communion at St Nicholas
Scripture:'Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of services, but the same Lord; and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who activates all of them in everyone. To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good. All these are activated by one and the same Spirit, who allots to each one individually just as the Spirit chooses.' (1 Cor. 12.4-7&11) Reflection:Here is an encouraging piece of scripture from Paul, written to believers in the early church in Corinth. He speaks of varieties of gifts, varieties of service, and varieties of activities. All of them being given by the same Spirit, the same Lord; all being given by God.Do you notice though that these gifts are given to everyone? Paul says they are given to each individual – as God chooses. “Everyone” and “each individual” includes you. You have gifts given to you by God. Here’s a question to ponder as you continue your walk or as you go through today: “What are you doing with the gifts you have?” Because Paul also says that they are given “for the common good.” We should all be using the gifts we have been freely given to help those around us. Enjoy your God-given gifts; and use them!Revd David
8 am Holy Communion at St Nicholas
Epiphany: The Wise MenAs with gladness men of old did the shining star behold,As with joy they hailed its light, leading onward, beaming bright, So, most gracious God may we evermore be led to thee ReflectionIt’s fascinating to learn of the different ways God makes himself known. I don’t know of anyone else guided to God by a star, but then stars were what these magi, or wise men, knew about. They were astrologers, whose whole business was the study of the firmament, so it’s hardly surprising that this was God’s way of communicating with them.I have a friend who found God while birdwatching on Romney Marsh. Another came to faith through the miracle of his son’s birth. Some find God through the contagious faith of friends; some through scripture, music, art, sport, science, grief or joy. For God there is no ‘one size fits all’. He speaks to each of us in our own situation, in ways we understand. Lord, open our eyes and our ears that we, too, may be ‘led to thee’ Revd Rosemary
