The kingdom of heaven may be compared to a king who gave a wedding banquet for his son. He sent his slaves to call those who had been invited to the wedding banquet, but they would not come. Matthew 22 : 2 - 3

Readings this week Psalm 23; Isaiah 25 : 1 - 9; Philippians 4 : 1 - 9; Matthew 22 : 1 - 14

Thought for this week

I wonder how you feel when you receive an invitation? It is something that can make us feel uplifted, honoured, encouraged to be included perhaps? Maybe we start making preparations. Maybe there are arrangements to be made, gifts to bring, the right clothes to wear.

The Parable Jesus tells in the Gospel reading begins with an invitation. The host is a King. The invitation is a Royal Invitation. Yet the invitation is turned down. Moreover of those who do attend, one of the guests disrespects the host, does not dress appropriately. The King is angry, and Jesus highlights the honour and grace of being invited by Him, and how much depends on how we respond to Him.

Jesus makes it clear throughout the Gospels He is inviting us into forgiveness, salvation and newness of life. He invites us to believe in Him, receive from Him, and know the greatness of the invitation He offers.

It is an invitation that cost Jesus everything. And it is for each of us personally. We respond by receiving forgiveness from Jesus and believing in Him. Let us never forget the greatness of all that Jesus invites us into.

Rev  Paul

Prayer for this week

O God, forasmuch as without you we are not able to please you; mercifully grant that your Holy Spirit may in all things direct and rule our hearts; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, who is alive and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen

Faithful Lord, whose steadfast love never ceases and whose mercies never come to an end: grant us the grace to trust you and to receive the gifts of your love, new every morning, in Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen

We give thanks for…..

Our Harvest celebrations

Jesus’ wonderful invitation into salvation and new life

Our fellowship with the other churches in our area