Fast Facts: I’m currently reading: “Black Liturgies” by Cole Arthur Riley and “We Solve Murders” by Richard Osman
Whilst writing this I am listening to: “Dona Nobis Pacem” by Taize
Fun Fact of the week: On Beltane (1st May) it was believed that washing your face in the morning dew on Beltane (or drinking it) would bring beauty, youthfulness, and vitality. (If you missed it yesterday morning then there is always next year!)
In the 1989 film “Field of Dreams” Kevin Costner’s character says, “If you build it they will come”. I’ve never seen the film and am not a big fan of KC but I often use this line, slightly tongue-in-cheek, to motivate me towards action and innovation. I am sure we were taught something different at theological college (The Parable of the Talents, perhaps?) Anyway, I realised this week how much I disagree with the whole sentiment!
I was reflecting on our evolving youth club at St. James. Everyone who comes does so because of relationships. Of course, it is necessary to have the church open and activities made available, but young people only come through the door if they are invited, made welcome, and relationships are nurtured. Writing this I realise that it is true for all aspects of church life. It is not enough to simply build it and sit back waiting for the people to come. It is necessary to nurture belonging and connection with one another; the church becoming an embodiment of Christ’s love and compassion for all people.
This should come as no surprise to me as the Christian faith is based on a relationship with God, made known to us as the Source of All Being, Christ, and Holy Spirit. This centrality of ‘relationship’ within Christianity is made clear in a verse from our Gospel this coming Sunday, “Jesus said “I am the way, the truth and the life”” (John 14:6). Jesus is not saying (although he does elsewhere) “I know the way, follow me” or “I know the way, let me give you the map”. He is saying that the way is who he is. To discover this way is to enter into a relationship with Christ and to seek ever closer union with Christ. To follow Christ means to seek a mutual indwelling with God and one another.
For Field of Dreams 2 ( Heaven forbid!) I suggest they change the line to “If you open your heart to God and to your neighbour then they will come”. Not quite so punchy or of the zeitgeist but a better reflection of your faith?
As always, if you would like me to pray for, or have a conversation about anything then do get in touch. I am available to listen and share in whatever might be arising for you at this time.
"Nothing can separate us from the love of God revealed to us in Christ Jesus" Rom 8:38-39
With peace and blessings,
Rev Steve
07503164309
My day of rest this week is Monday.