St John the Baptist, Middleton

What is the kingdom of God like??? The Kingdom of God may be seen as being both the present and the future. As the hymn says, “Our God reigns”, but his kingdom is not like an earthly kingdom or territory, but more perhaps like a place in our hearts and minds. We pray, “Your kingdom come” when we say the Lord’s Prayer. What do we actually mean by that? The Kingdom of God is at once “at hand”, “in the midst of us”, “coming, but not here yet”. We are told to repent, because the kingdom of God is at hand”. This can be very unsettling and confusing. Jesus was trying to explain what God’s expectations of us are without claiming to be a king or God himself. His life would have been threatened by such a claim and his time on earth would not have achieved its purpose.

In realising that “Jesus is Lord, creation’s voice proclaims it”, we are looking at the kingdom of God and its king. In order to try to explain this to his disciples, Jesus compared the kingdom to many everyday things and situations, such as a mustard seed, yeast, hidden treasure, a fine pearl, a wedding banquet and so on. The kingdom begins in small ways and grows and transforms. If we follow the teachings of Jesus in our daily lives, we will see and be part of the kingdom of God in action. God reigns and was seen on earth in the person of Jesus who is Lord.

Curdworth Choir Thank you to members of the Choir for agreeing to our Open Evening last Wednesday. We had two visitors, which wasn’t bad for a first time. Yes, we think we will repeat the invitation from time to time, and include refreshments too. It’s good to relax and have a chat, after the singing, of course!

The invitation has no strings attached, just offers an opportunity to join in some serious and some lighter music. So next time, maybe you could consider coming along to see what choir rehearsals look and sound like and I’m sure you will go away feeling physically and spiritually nourished.

Margaret

St John the Baptist, Middleton

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