I am the gate. Whoever enters by me will be saved, and will come in and go out and find pasture. 10 The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.  John 10 : 9 - 10

Readings this week Acts 2 : 42 - end; 1 Peter 2 : 19 - end; John 10 : 1 – 10

Thought for the week

The image of the Lord as our shepherd is a very familiar one. The one who cares for us and guides us, and longs for us to be safe. Life is full of dangers as well as celebrations. The Bible reminds us constantly we are to look to the Lord for hope, for protection and for safety in Him. Our ultimate safe place is to be with the Lord for ever.

There are always those who would rob, steal or destroy. Yet as people of Jesus’ resurrection we are called to bring hope and Jesus’ love to our world. The task of the shepherd to protect the sheep meant often the shepherd placing themselves between danger and the sheep. Even acting as the gate for the sheep pen at night.

Jesus has placed Himself between the full danger and destruction of our sin and us. He has endured sacrifice and death on the Cross because He is the Good Shepherd. He has opened the way to salvation and eternal life. He is the gate into the Father’s presence and His love. And he calls us to share His love and salvation with the world.

I pray we may each know the loving care, rescue and safety of Jesus, and His calling to share His love with the world. 

RevPaul

Prayer for this week

Almighty God, whose Son Jesus Christ is the resurrection and the life: raise us, who trust in him, from the death of sin to the life of righteousness, that we may seek those things which are above, where he reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen

Risen Christ, faithful shepherd of your Father’s sheep: teach us to hear your voice and to follow your command, that all your people may be gathered into one flock, to the glory of God the Father. Amen

We give thanks for…..

Eve’s baptism last Sunday

Sean and Charlotte’s wedding day

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