Building the TempleAfter the king was settled in his palace and the Lord had given him rest from all his enemies around him, 2 he said to Nathan the prophet, ‘Here I am, living in a house of cedar, while the ark of God remains in a tent.’ (2 Samuel 7:1-2)In the heart of the Bible lies a profound truth: God is a builder. This theme is illustrated in 2 Samuel 7:1-11, where God establishes His covenant with David, promising to create a people for Himself. God expands on His covenant with His people in his dealings with Adam, Noah, Moses and David, but it is with David where the Kingdom is properly established. At this point in Israel's history, David has become king, and the nation is at rest from its enemies. It’s a moment of peace and prosperity, and David desires to build a house for the Lord, a majestic temple to house the Ark of the Covenant. However, God has a different plan. He responds through the prophet Nathan, revealing that David will not build a house for Him; rather, God will build a house for David, a dynasty that will endure forever.This story sets the stage for understanding God’s nature as a builder. David’s desire to honour God through a physical structure is noble, but God refocuses the narrative. He is not confined to a building; rather, He seeks to cultivate a relationship with His people that goes beyond physical spaces.In verses 8-11, God outlines His covenant with David, promising to establish his kingdom and ensure that his offspring will reign. This promise is huge. It signals the beginning of a royal lineage that will eventually lead to Jesus Christ, the ultimate fulfilment of God’s promise to David. Here, we see the multi-generational aspect of God’s building project. He is not merely concerned with immediate results; His vision holds eternity.This covenant reveals God's desire to dwell among His people. He chooses to establish His presence in the midst of a community that will worship Him, serve Him, and reflect His glory. As Christians, we understand that this promise is not limited to Israel but expands to all believers through Christ. We are now part of a spiritual house, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ as the cornerstone (Ephesians 2:19-22).God’s promise to David is a reminder that He is actively at work in our lives today. Just as He built a nation through David, He continues to build His church. This process involves not just individual believers but the whole body of Christ. Each one of us plays a unique role in this divine construction project.In 1 Peter 2:5, we are described as “living stones” being built into a spiritual house. This imagery conveys that every believer contributes to the overall structure and purpose of the church. Our gifts, talents, and experiences come together to create a vibrant community that reflects God’s love and grace.As we consider our role in God’s building project, we must ask ourselves: Are we willing to be shaped and moulded according to His design? Are we ready to step into the roles He has prepared for us? Just as the early church faced challenges and persecution, we too will encounter obstacles. Yet, it is through these experiences that God refines us and strengthens our faith.May we continually seek His presence, remain faithful to His calling, and actively participate in the building of His church, knowing that we are not just spectators but integral parts of His divine plan. God is building us—let us be ready to be used for His purposes.‘“The Lord declares to you that the Lord himself will establish a house for you:” (2 Samuel 7:11) Brian Leathers October 2025
Meeting held 4pm on 23rd Sept 2025Churchyard: We would like to arrange a working party to sort some minor jobs in the Churchyard round the Church - do contact Linda (Churchwarden)The Churchyard extension (behind the war memorial) needs work and some kind folk in the village have offered to help. Do contact Linda.Ecumenical Fellowship: is proposed to start meeting monthly staring on Oct 24th at 2pm - contact Brian (Vicar) or Heather Hayward.Alton Advent Calendar is being planned – do tell Louie Young your ideas Boiler Saga is ongoing. There are no spare parts for the old boiler that has worked well for years and new government rules mean the ventilation is not considered adequate. We will need to make a hole in the Church wall once a replacement is obtained. We have a temporary grill in the West door as we cope with the changes – this will be reinstated as it was as soon as we can. We had to consider electric heating for the Church but have decided to stay with Gas, but now are finding quotes for the work hard to source. Please be patient with us.
Chaos and training“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”(Romans 8:28)God is always good. The parsonages department at Lichfield decided that after 16 years in the Vicarage, I needed a new bathroom. Like many people in tied or rented houses – we are dependent on the landlord to renovate. As I write we are in the second week of having workmen in the house having made dust and noise. We are interested to see what the new walls and shower will look like, but anxious to get back to normal. Some helpful friends offered the use of their shower when we needed it.We’re not used to this, and it has caused some feelings of being overwhelmed and frustrated. However, in these moments of chaos, we can find profound lessons about patience, faith, and reliance on God.Disruptions can serve as a divine invitation to lean into our faith and discover deeper truths about ourselves and our relationship with God.One of the most valuable lessons we can learn during a home renovation—or any disruption—is patience. When we’re faced with the noise and mess of construction, it forces us to pause and reflect. We might not have our usual comforts, but we can take this time to deepen our prayer life, read Scripture, and engage in meaningful conversations with family members. Each moment of inconvenience becomes an opportunity to practice patience and trust in God’s timing.In the midst of disruption, it’s essential to find joy. Nehemiah 8:10 (NIV) teaches us, “The joy of the Lord is your strength.” Even when the shower is out of commission and the kitchen feels like a construction site, we can choose to find joy in the little things, a warm cup of tea, a moment of laughter, or a shared meal.Consider the biblical account of Paul and Silas, who sang hymns while imprisoned (Acts 16:25). Their joy in the middle of suffering not only uplifted their spirits but also led to the conversion of the jailer. Our joyful attitude during times of disruption can be a powerful testimony to others.Disruptions often highlight our dependence on God. Philippians 4:19 (NIV) reassures us, “And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.” When we lack our usual conveniences, we can turn our focus toward God, recognizing that our true needs—peace, comfort, joy—come from Him.As we navigate the challenges of even minor inconveniences, like home transformations, we are reminded to rely on God’s provision. Whether it’s finding creative solutions for daily needs or simply taking a moment to pray, our dependence on God becomes crystal clear.Living through disruptions can be challenging, but they also serve as potent reminders of God’s presence in our lives. By embracing patience, finding joy, and learning to depend on Him, we can transform the chaos of life into a spiritual journey. Times that are worse will come, and if we have taken every opportunity to train our spirits to cope well with minor inconveniences, we will be much better able to deal with terrible emergencies.Remember that, like the builders in our home, God is at work, shaping us into the people He desires us to be. So, the next time you find yourself in a state of disruption, pause and seek the lessons God has in store for you. After all, even in the mess, He is crafting something beautiful.“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” (James 1:2-4) Brian Leathers September 2025
Harvest Supper for Alton and Bradley Considering how best to take the many requests for different food that we had from the last Harvest Supper the committee have decided to book the “Ship Inn” at Upper Tean. Notices will go up in the Churches with the menu and we need a £5 deposit for each person booking in please. Do note that we are limited to a maximum of 50 people in total
