When Jesus saw the crowds, he went up the mountain; and after he sat down, his disciples came to him. Then he began to speak, and taught them, saying: ‘Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.   Matthew 5 : 1 – 3

Readings this week Revelation 7 : 9 - end; 1 John 3 : 1 - 3; Matthew 5 : 1 - 12

Thought for this week

Today we are gathering our shoeboxes to be sent to Eastern Europe. They will be given to families and individuals who live in such poor conditions. We hope and pray the shoeboxes will bring them joy, and will remind them they are valued and loved by God.

The whole story of the Bible is about the Lord who reaches out to us. From the beginning the Father revealing His love in the first garden. And even after rebellion and disruption, throughout the Old Testament the Lord repeatedly reached out to frail human beings, embodying His love for us in the promises of a Covenant. Then the whole of the Lord’s initiative and seeking for us came together in Jesus, our Good Shepherd, our friend, the ultimate and perfect revelation of the Lord’s love.

How amazing and wonderful the Lord enables us to be part of His reaching out to all men, women and children. With our shoeboxes we can reach out to those in need in this way with a sign and the message of His love for them in Jesus. For the next weeks too we will be proclaiming the message in every way we can, so many more people can hear the Good news. Thank you to everyone who has brought shoeboxes today. 

Together we are part of the Lord’s wonderful plan for His world. 

Rev  Paul

Prayer for this week

Almighty God, you have knit together your elect in one communion and fellowship, in the mystical body of your Son Christ our Lord: grant us grace so to follow your blessed saints, in all virtuous and godly living, that we may come to those inexpressible joys that you have prepared for those who truly love you; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, Amen

God of holiness, your glory is proclaimed in every age: as we rejoice in the faith of your saints, inspire us to follow their example with boldness and joy; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen

We give thanks for…..

The Blythswood Shoebox Appeal

Our unity with Christians in our neighbourhood