APC 25th April 2021 ‘God’s Hidden Presence’ (Part 2) PART 1 Welcome and Introduction Good morning everyone and welcome to our Sunday morning worship. Today I want to continue with the second part of our mini-series as we reflect on ‘God’s hidden presence’. But to begin let’s worship God together as our good friends in Arklow Revival Gospel Choir remind us that even when it’s hard to see Him, God is always with us and His love never fails us… (End Part 1) Opening Song “Unfailing Love” PART 2 Last week we thought about how Mary was unable to recognise Jesus through her tears even though he was standing right beside her. When she realised who the gardener was, she and the other disciples were overjoyed. Unfortunately that joy was short-lived as a few weeks later Jesus left them to return to heaven. Once again they felt like God was absent. Listen to how Luke describes this in the first chapter of the book of Acts… Reading Acts 1 v 1-11 4 On one occasion, while Jesus was eating with His disciples, he gave them this command: “Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard me speak about. 5 For John baptized with water, but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.” 6 Then they gathered around him and asked him, “Lord, are you at this time going to restore the kingdom to Israel?” 7 He said to them: “It is not for you to know the times or dates the Father has set by his own authority. 8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” 9 After he said this, he was taken up before their very eyes, and a cloud hid him from their sight. 10 They were looking intently up into the sky as he was going, when suddenly two men dressed in white stood beside them. 11 “Menfolk of Galilee,” they said, “why do you stand here looking into the sky? This same Jesus who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen Him go into heaven.” Since that day, we’re all still waiting for Jesus to return. But this morning we’re going to reflect on a surprising place where we can still discover God’s hidden presence in our world. But before we do that let’s talk to God, let’s pray… Opening Prayer Lord Jesus Christ, we remember today how your apostles stood gazing into heaven, troubled and confused fearing they had lost you, struggling to make sense of their experience. Open our eyes to your glory. We remember how the days following your ascension they remained hidden behind locked doors, bound by the weakness of their imagination, tied down by the feebleness of their vision, restricted by the smallness of their faith. Open our eyes to your glory. Instead of worshipping you as King of Kings and Lord of Lords, they thought you had gone from them. Instead of rejoicing at your exaltation they felt that they were separated from you once again. Open our eyes to your glory. Despite what they had been told, they looked still for the man they knew and understood, the man who had walked the streets of Nazareth, who had talked with them beside the sea of Galilee, who had suffered and died for them in Jerusalem. Open our eyes to your glory. But you showed them that Jesus was greater than they had begun to imagine – not bound by space or time, not tied down to one particular place, not restricted to one particular people, but ascended to your side and one with you for all eternity. Open our eyes to your glory. Lord Jesus Christ, forgive us that all too often we make the same mistake as the apostles – we expect you to fit in with our expectations, we assume we know all there is to know about you, we settle for a comfortable, cozy picture of you that offers much and asks little; and when that way of thinking is challenged or threatened we are puzzled, suddenly overcome by a multitude of questions. Open our eyes to your glory. Forgive us that our horizons have been too narrow, our sights set too low, our expectations too limited. Open our eyes to your glory. Help us to glimpse the wonder of who you are and the untold possibilities of all you can do, catching our breath in awe and captured by a new vision of your Kingdom. Open our eyes to your glory. Join with me now as we say the Lord’s Prayer thoughtfully and sincerely together… Our Father, which art in heaven, Hallowed be Thy name, Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done, On earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day, our daily bread, And forgive us our trespasses, As we forgive those who trespass against us, And lead us not into temptation, But deliver us from evil, For Thine is the Kingdom, the power and the glory, For ever and ever, AMEN. Introduction to Kids Video We come now to the part of our service that’s especially for the younger members of our church family. So if your kids aren’t beside you right now, why not pause the recording, and call them in to watch a short video explaining why Jesus ascended back into heaven. And at the end of this video I’ve a few words to say to the children so don’t let them rush away. (END Part 2) Kid’s Video Saddleback Kids “The Ascension” LINK https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UcFw8pLBSIo PART 3 Kid’s Talk Summary Hey boys and girls, I hope you enjoyed the video today. It’s amazing to think that Jesus came back to life after he died and that a few weeks later He went back up into heaven. That’s where Jesus is today. We can’t see Him but we know He’s alive in heaven because He has sent His Spirit, the Holy Spirit, to be with us. The fantastic thing is that the Holy Spirit can be with every person in the whole world all the time! Jesus could only be with a few people at a time. So in one sense, it’s good that Jesus went up to heaven so the Holy Spirit could be with all of us all the time. Having the Holy Spirit is just like having Jesus with you as your best friend. That means you can talk to God and ask the Holy Spirit to help you anytime and anywhere. Don’t be afraid to ask the Holy Spirit to be your best friend. And don’t be afraid to talk to Him every day and ask Him to guide you, to give you wisdom and to make you happy and kind to others. The Holy Spirit loves you and He will help you. Don’t forget to ask your mum or dad to download the colouring sheet from our Facebook page to help you remember today’s lesson. But Bye for now! Colouring Sheet https://sermons4kids.com/ascension_colorpg.htm Introduction to Bible Reading When Jesus went back to heaven, for the second time the disciples felt abandoned by God. So too in our world today many people feel as if God has gone on holiday. Because they can’t see Him many don’t believe in God, and don’t give any thought to the truth that he is coming back. Our second reading today is the fifth of a series of 5 stories that Jesus told about this period of history between His ascension into heaven and His return to earth as judge. I find this story fascinating for many reasons but today I want to use it to help us to reflect on another unexpected place in life where you and I can find God’s hidden presence. It will be read for us by the newest member of our church Mr Stuart Ferguson who I’m delighted has joined us from Adelaide Road since recently coming to live in Arklow. (End Part 3) Bible Reading Matthew 25 v 31- 46 Stuart Ferguson The Sheep and the Goats 31 “When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit on his glorious throne. 32 All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. 33 He will put the sheep on his right and the goats on his left. 34 “Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. 35 For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, 36 I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’ 37 “Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? 38 When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? 39 When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’ 40 “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’ 41 “Then he will say to those on his left, ‘Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels. 42 For I was hungry and you gave me nothing to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me nothing to drink, 43 I was a stranger and you did not invite me in, I needed clothes and you did not clothe me, I was sick and in prison and you did not look after me.’ 44 “They also will answer, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or needing clothes or sick or in prison, and did not help you?’ 45 “He will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me.’ 46 “Then they will go away to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life.” Part 4 Welcome to Stuart Stuart, I am so delighted that you have decided to join our church family now that you have moved to Arklow and at some point hopefully in the near future we will give you a very warm and official welcome. For now thank you for reading for us today. Reflection ‘God’s hidden presence’ (Part 2) What are the things that have happened in your life that have made you ask, “Where is God?” If we’re honest, there are times for all of us when God seems absent, even though we know that He lives inside us by His Holy Spirit. Last week we reflected on how Mary Magdalene couldn’t see Jesus through her tears. Even though he was right beside her, she mistook him for the gardener. Today I want to reflect on another aspect of God’s hidden presence as we think about how Mary and the other disciples must have felt after Jesus left them to go back to heaven. Jesus’ death had left the disciples devastated. Their dreams of everything He had promised were shattered. But then Mary brought them the extraordinary news that somehow He’d been resurrected from the dead! The next 6 weeks must have been completely bizarre, and yet amazingly exciting and happy to say the least. One by one, Jesus appeared to the disciples and chatted with them for hours. He could eat. They could touch Him. He even allowed Thomas to put his finger in the scars of the nails in his arms. In many ways he looked and sounded exactly as they’d remembered. But He was definitely different. I mean, there aren’t many of us that can enter a room by walking through the wall! But then, just as they were getting used to having Him with them again, out of the blue, in the middle of one of their meals together, Jesus suddenly begins to float up into the clouds and eventually he disappears from their sight. As they stand there looking up into the sky in bewilderment, again two angelic beings appear and rather ‘mater-of-factly’ break the latest devastating news… “Why are you standing there looking up into the sky? This same Jesus who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen Him go into heaven.” Once again the disciples are left reeling, feeling abandoned by God. It would be a few more weeks yet before they would realise that this was Jesus’ great plan all along. When the Holy Spirit came to earth at Pentecost, not only filling the room, but filling their hearts with the Spirit of the risen Christ, then the penny would drop. All along it had been Jesus’ plan to live His life on earth again, only this time through the bodies of His followers. What Jesus was able to bring to a few people - healing, grace, the good news of God’s love, He would now be able to bring to billions through people like you and me, people in whom His Spirit now lives. Like those first followers, for you and me it can also be an amazing light bulb moment when we realise that the Spirit of Christ actually lives inside us! When the circumstances of life cloud the presence of God in our world, it’s always an encouragement to remember that His Spirit is still living inside us. Somehow, however failingly, that means that you and I can bring Christ to our world. Our words, our actions, our prayers matter. They do make a difference. Yet, despite the truth of all of this, and despite the fact that most of us believe it, isn’t it easy to forget? When certain things happen, when difficulties continue for long enough in our lives, it’s easy to forget that the Holy Spirit is inside us. It’s easy to forget that we can make a difference and that God does hear our prayers. It’s easy to look up at the blue sky, and see, nothing! You see, by ascending into heaven, Jesus took the risk of being forgotten. That’s why he told the disciples a number of interesting and related stories before he left. You’ll find them all towards the end of Matthew’s gospel. All of these stories reflect how many people will live in the period of time between Jesus leaving earth and when He returns. In one of the stories, an owner leaves his house vacant. In another, an absentee landlord puts his servant in charge. In the third, a bridegroom arrives so late that the guests grow drowsy and fall asleep and in the fourth, a master distributes talents among his servants and then takes off. In effect, all of these stories anticipate the question on the lips of many people in our modern - “Where is God now?” Ever since Jesus went back to heaven most people, in our world have decided that God has simply abandoned us and left us to our own devices. Throughout history we have witnessed many examples of what happens when people stop believing in God and when they don’t believe that one day He will return. They live selfishly and they treat animals and other human beings in horrible ways. But there is a fifth story in this series, which not only reminds us that Christ will come back, but that also gives us a fascinating insight into where we can actually find God’s hidden presence in the here and now. It’s the parable of the sheep and the goats that Stuart very kindly read for us earlier. In this story, we are reminded that a day is coming when Jesus will return. On that day there will literally be hell to pay for those people who have lived selfishly as if the Sovereign landlord does not exist. The parable spans what is often called the ‘end times’ in scripture. That is the entire length of time between when Jesus ascended into heaven and the day when He will come back to earth again. Throughout this period, to many people, and at times perhaps even to us, it will look and feel as if God is absent. But amazingly and perhaps even shockingly, this parable teaches us that although Jesus is in heaven, He is never absent from our world. In addition to being with us through His unseen Spirit, this story teaches us that God has chosen to disguise Himself in the cloak of the hungry, the thirsty, the sick and the imprisoned. “I tell you”, Jesus says, “whatever you have done, for one of the least of these brothers of mine you, have done it unto me.” You see, when Jesus left this world, He knew that He would be leaving behind a planet that would continue to be filled with the poor, the hungry, the imprisoned and the sick. But He made plans to cope with this. We call this plan redemption. The long term part of this plan is that one day in the future Christ will return to restore this entire cosmos to its state of original perfection. In that new world, there will be no more tears, no more pain, no more disease or disaster or suffering. Those of us who love Jesus will be allowed to share in this amazing new life. The short term part of this plan is that in the meantime, God has deliberately left you and me in charge. Christ now lives in us by His Holy Spirit. That means we are His eyes and ears and hands and feet throughout the world. It is our job to look for Him in the poor, the sick, the hungry, the abused and imprisoned. And when we see Him, He expects us to help. He has given us His Spirit to motivate and enable us to carry out this task. The story is told that one day a rich American tourist asked mother Teresa, “Why are you so committed to the very dregs of Calcutta?” Her reply was this, “We are a contemplative order. First we meditate on Christ and then we go out and look for Him in disguise.” I wonder, do you feel as if God is absent in your life and in our world? Could it be that you are looking for Him in the wrong place? Let us pray… Prayer for Others Living God, you came to our world through Christ to help, to heal and to rescue. So now we pray for all those in any kind of need. Reach out to them in your love. We pray for the sick and suffering, the poor and hungry, the oppressed and exploited, the lonely and unloved, the aged and infirm, the frightened and anxious, the sorrowful and the bereaved, the helpless and the hopeless. Reach out to them in your love. Living God, there is so much need around us, in our neighbourhood, our town, our country and our world – so many people crying out for help. Reach out to them in your love. Lord, you come disguised in those who are in need. What we do for them we do for you. So help us to see where and how we can respond as individuals and as a church. Give us the means, the will, the commitment and the love to reach out in the name of Christ, offering something of ourselves to others, even as he offered His all for us. Lord, reach out to them in your love, through us… Take a few moments now to bring your own prayers for others to God at this time…. All these prayers we offer in the name of the one is always present with us in the poor and through His Holy Spirit, Amen. Introduction to Song When he was on earth Christ brought hope and encouragement to so many people. As His people, with the help of His Spirit it’s our job to do the same. Let’s remind ourselves of that as we sing together the beautiful modern song, “Hope has a name…” (End Part 4) Song “Hope has a name” Part 5 Closing Words It’s been a joy and privilege to share in worship with you this morning. Thanks for logging on. I hope you’ve enjoyed it and found it to be both a challenge and encouragement. I’ve still no further definite confirmation of when our church can reopen for services but I’m hoping that it will be in the first half of May. I want to remind you to take your time and carefully complete the GDPR form that we have sent you out. Please make any amendments to any of the details that you would like us to hold for you and your family. And do ask all the relevant people in your household to sign the form. If you require any additional forms for a young adult in your household for example, then please just ask and we will happily send it out. Once you’ve completed please do email it to us or drop it into Aleida or into me at the church in a sealed envelope. I’m conscious that many of us are weary and really struggling the longer the lockdown restrictions continue, so please do continue to keep in touch with one another and encourage one another. But for now, as always, let me lead you in a Benediction after which I invite you to say the grace together… Benediction People of God, we are sent out in the power of the Holy Spirit, to be God’s witnesses; to proclaim the Good News to everyone we meet, to share the love that God has lavished on us in Jesus Christ. So go from here in the power and strength of God, to bear witness to all you have seen and experienced. And May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with us all now and for evermore, Amen.” APC 21st April 2021 Pandemic Praise – ‘Chosen by God’. Welcome and Introduction Good morning everyone and welcome back to our Wednesday morning worship. Today I want to begin a new series which I’m hoping will take us right up to when we can actually meet together again in church. It’s a series I’ve called ‘Pandemic Praise’ because I want to help us reflect on some of the spiritual blessings that God has given us in Christ. These are things that we can give thanks for and that I hope will lift our spirits no matter how weary, impatient or frustrated we are currently feeling. But as always let’s begin by stilling our hearts and talking to God, let’s pray… Opening Prayer Lord Jesus we thank you for all those who have heard your call across the ages – all those from different walks of life who have come together, at different times, in different ways and in different places to be your people. Lord Jesus, for your surprising call, receive our thanks. We thank you for the way you have consistently brought together the most unlikely of individuals – from different races, different cultures with different characters and different gifts to become your church. Lord Jesus, for your surprising call, receive our thanks. And above all we thank you that you have called us here, with our different outlooks, contrasting temperaments, diverging backgrounds and variety of experiences to be your church in this place. Lord Jesus, for your surprising call, receive our thanks. Lord Jesus Christ, teach us that whoever we are you can use us- you can use anyone and everyone for your Kingdom. Help us to accept one another and ourselves as we really are- united in our diversity by one common cause. Take us and use us just as we are, to demonstrate your transforming love and to work for the coming of your Kingdom. Lord Jesus, for your surprising call, receive our thanks. Our Father, which art in heaven, Hallowed be Thy name, Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done, On earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day, our daily bread, And forgive us our trespasses, As we forgive those who trespass against us, And lead us not into temptation, But deliver us from evil, For Thine is the Kingdom, the power and the glory, For ever and ever, AMEN. Reflection Pandemic Praise – ‘Chosen by God’. I’m going to be honest with you – as I walked into my office on Monday morning I was thinking to myself – “Lord what on earth am I going to say to people over this next few weeks? What can I say that will bring some hope and encouragement despite the weariness and frustration that most of us are feeling?” As I prayed and listened, I sensed that God was saying to me – “Michael, remind people of the spiritual blessings I have given them, gifts that they can enjoy at all times, in all circumstances.” So that’s what I want to do. Over the next few weeks on Wednesday mornings I want to help us reflect on some of the spiritual blessings that God has given us in Christ. These are gifts that we have now and that will last for ever. No restrictions, no pandemic, not even death itself can take these blessings from us or spoil our enjoyment of them. What’s more, as we reflect upon these spiritual blessings they can give us immense hope and encouragement on a daily basis. To direct our thoughts, I want to use a letter that Paul wrote while he too was in lockdown, in a Roman prison. The letter is addressed to a church in Ephesus, although most people believe it was a circular letter that Paul wanted to be read by all the Christian churches. Whatever the original intended audience, Paul’s letter to the Ephesians has since been widely circulated throughout the world. It has been called the “Queen of the Epistles” because it is so full of spiritual wisdom, insight and encouragement. Over the next few Wednesdays I want to focus on the opening paragraph of this letter. Let’s read it together now… Ephesians Chapter 1 v 1-14 ”Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, To God’s holy people in Ephesus, the faithful in Christ Jesus: 2 Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. 3 Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ. 4 For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love 5 he predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will— 6 to the praise of his glorious grace, which he has freely given us in the One he loves. 7 In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace 8 that he lavished on us. With all wisdom and understanding, 9 he made known to us the mystery of his will according to his good pleasure, which he purposed in Christ, 10 to be put into effect when the times reach their fulfillment—to bring unity to all things in heaven and on earth under Christ. 11 In him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will, 12 in order that we, who were the first to put our hope in Christ, might be for the praise of his glory. 13 And you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation. When you believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, 14 who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession—to the praise of his glory. In this letter, after his usual introduction where he sets out his credentials as an apostle, Paul immediately bursts into a spontaneous outpouring of joy as he reflects on all the spiritual blessings that He has experienced in Christ. The wonder of these things gives Paul such excitement and happiness that he shouts aloud, “Praise God!” It’s my hope that if these things could lift the spirits of a man on death row in prison, they will be able to lift our spirits in the middle of our own lockdown! So what is Paul getting so excited about? Well for today, let’s just think about the first thing that he shares. He writes this, “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ. For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight.” I wonder do you realize that you have been chosen by God? The Creator of the universe has picked you to be part of his team! It sounds too good to be true. In one sense, it is. You know yourself. You know the thoughts and feelings inside that no one else sees. You know the things you’ve done or said or the things you should have done or said but didn’t, that no-one else knows about. You know all the things that make you feel guilty, that make you feel bad about yourself. And God knows about them too! The truth is, you and I don’t deserve to be on God’s team. We don’t deserve His love and attention! In fact, the only thing we deserve is God’s judgement – and that means so much more than a good telling off or a lunchtime detention! The reality is, God is so holy, so perfect, that we don’t deserve to be anywhere near His presence. But the amazing and almost unbelievable thing is that despite all that God already knows about us, He has still chosen to send His Son to die for us so that we could become His closest friends. God didn’t have to do this. But He has chosen to do this out of His goodness and mercy. You know, every time I sit in my car at the church gates I’m reminded about this. I’m there in my white car with my indicator on to turn right. There’s even a bump in the road to help people slow down. It’s a busy road. Often the times I’m coming out, people are rushing home from work. At those times I’m utterly dependent on someone out of the kindness of their heart stopping and letting me out into the traffic. They don’t have to. Many don’t! But I am so thankful when eventually someone kindly stops and waves me out. In fact, I’m so grateful that just a hundred yards later I automatically stop to let any person coming from the Sea Road out onto the Dublin Road. This act of kindness on my part is simply a reflection of the kindness I have been shown by a complete stranger just a few minutes earlier. Paul says God has ‘chosen us in Christ… to be Holy and Blameless in His sight’. You see, that’s what an understanding of God’s undeserved kindness to us does. It makes us want to live right, to be loving and kind and generous to other people, in the same way that God has been kind to us. So this week I want to encourage you to make time to reflect on the amazing spiritual blessing that God has chosen you in Christ. Don’t rush this process. Take a good look at yourself in the light of who God is and what His standards are. Reflect deeply on what it would be like if God only treated you as you deserve. Then think about how instead, God deliberately chose to send His Son to take the judgement that you deserve. And since God has chosen to let you out when He could so easily have driven past, take time to reflect on how you can show your gratitude to Him in all you say and do. Let’s pray… Prayers for others Lord today we remember all those who are sick, in hospital, waiting for appointments or struggling emotionally with the continued restrictions. Loving Father, bring them your help and healing through the health care system and the support of family and friends. We pray too for all those who have been bereaved in recent days. We think especially of Mary Walker, Alison Crammond and Robert Holden. Draw near to them and to their wider family with your deep comfort and strengthening grace. Lord, all of us are finding it increasingly difficult in these days. So give us the courage, strength and perseverance we need. Help us to look out for one another and give us wisdom to know how best to support and encourage one another. We thank you that all our young people are back at school. Thank you for all the staff in our schools. Please continue to motivate them and give them energy and enthusiasm to make it a positive and effective learning environment for all our children. Help us to encourage and support all teachers in every way we can. Father we remember especially those in third level education and for all those in jobs who have not yet been permitted to return to work. God, while many enjoy working from home, many are finding it increasingly stressful, many are missing the social interaction of the college life and the office. Father for all who are struggling we pray that you would provide them with little encouragements each day to keep them going. We thank you for the vaccine rollouts throughout the world. Lord, please enable this process to be done fairly and grant that the poorest areas of our world will not be neglected. We pray especially for the situations in places like India and Brazil and ask that in your mercy that soon they will be able to get recent outbreaks of Covid under control. Lord, in your mercy please enable every country to begin to see real and lasting progress in the fight against this disease. Father, we remember all clergy and church leaders struggling to keep online services going and to pastorally acre for people in these days. Give each one energy and perseverance and fill them with hope and joy. We pray that the government will listen seriously to church leaders as they try to explain how important worship is for people of religious belief. We ask that very soon we will be allowed to return to worship together. We pray also for all the leaders of the EU, the UK and Ireland as they seek to understand the concerns of certain sections of the community in Northern Ireland and as they try to fine tune some of the issues around the movement of goods between different regions. We ask that you will give them great sensitivity, great wisdom and understanding and that tensions and fears may be enabled to be eased particularly in areas where there have been outbreaks of unrest in recent days. We pray long term for good relationships and for peaceful and pragmatic solutions to these complex and difficult situations. Take a few moments now to bring your own prayers for others to God at this time…. All these prayers we offer in the name of the one who has set His love upon us and who is always for us and not against us. Amen. Closing Words It’s been a joy and privilege to share in worship with you this morning. Thanks for logging on. I hope you’ve enjoyed it and found it to be encouraging. I’ve still no further confirmation of when our church can reopen for services but I’m hoping that it will be in the first half of May. I want to remind you to take your time and carefully complete the GDPR form that we have sent you out. Please make any amendments to any of the details that you would like us to hold for you and your family. And do ask all the relevant people in your household to sign the form. If you require any additional forms for a young adult in your household for example, then please just ask and we will happily send it out. Once you’ve completed please do drop it into Aleida or into me at the church in a sealed envelope. I’m conscious that many of us are weary and really struggling the longer the lockdown restrictions continue, so please do continue to keep in touch with one another and encourage one another. But for now, as always, let me lead you in a Benediction after which I invite you to say the grace together… Benediction You are the people of God. So go forth to live in such ways that by your actions and words others will see in you the life of Jesus and want to follow in his way. And May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with us all now and for evermore, Amen.” APC 18th April 2021 ‘God’s Hidden Presence’ (Part 1) PART 1 Welcome and Introduction Good morning everyone and welcome to our Sunday morning worship. I want to start by thanking our Moderator the Rev David Bruce for his wonderfully hopeful and thoughtful service last Sunday. Today I want to begin the first of a two part series as we consider the theme of ‘God’s hidden presence’. Over this past year at times we’ve all found it hard to see God in the midst of all the difficulties and uncertainties that we have faced. So I hope you’ll find these reflections helpful and encouraging as we continue to patiently wait and hope and pray for a return to some sort of normality. To open our worship I want to play a beautiful new hymn written my friend Jonathan Rea. The hymn is called “Your faithfulness endures.” It will be accompanied by a video clip entitled ‘Hope at Easter’ which reminds us that throughout Ireland our Presbyterian family are finding hope through their faith in God and in the support of our Christian family and friends. It’s especially nice for us to be able to share in this song as the opening title of moving letters was created by our very own Amy Whelton. So sit back and join in worship as we sing together “Your faithfulness endures”. (End Part 1) Opening Song “Your faithfulness endures” PART 2 I hope you were encouraged by all the images of people like us and great job Amy on the moving letters! But now let’s take a moment to talk to God, let’s pray… Opening Prayer Loving God, we thank you that in all the changing circumstances of our lives you are a God we can depend on – always faithful, always true, always loving, always merciful. For all your mercies we praise and thank you. We thank you that you are a God who is constantly at work – in our day to day lives, in our fellowship, in the church, in the world. For all your mercies we praise and thank you. Day by day, week by week, year by year, you are working out your purposes. For all your mercies we praise and thank you. Seen or unseen, recognized or unrecognized, appreciated or taken for granted, you are moving through your spirit, striving to build your kingdom and fulfil your will. For all your mercies we praise and thank you. Loving God, you do not work alone, but have invited us to play a part in your purpose. In your mercy teach us to respond in faith. Help us to keep our side of the bargain – to do our bit as you do yours, to be a people whose lives clearly witness to your love, to live in a way that is consistent with what we believe and honoring to you. In your mercy teach us to respond in faith. Help us to make the most of everything you have given us, to use our gifts, to grasp our opportunities, and to offer our time, our money and our talents freely in your service. In your mercy teach us to respond in faith. And help us finally, having played our part, to leave all things in your hands, knowing that, though all else may fail, your love will never will. Thanks be to God. Join with me now as we say the Lord’s Prayer thoughtfully and sincerely together… Our Father, which art in heaven, Hallowed be Thy name, Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done, On earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day, our daily bread, And forgive us our trespasses, As we forgive those who trespass against us, And lead us not into temptation, But deliver us from evil, For Thine is the Kingdom, the power and the glory, For ever and ever, AMEN. Introduction to Kids Video We come now to the part of our service that’s especially for the younger members of our church family. So if your kids aren’t beside you right now, why not pause the recording, and call them in to watch a short video about the main character in our story today- Mary Magdalene. And at the end of this video I’ve a few words to say to the children so don’t let them rush away. (END Part 2) Kid’s Video God’s Story – Mary Magdalene LINK https://vimeo.com/30378844 PART 3 Kid’s Talk Summary Hey boys and girls, I hope you enjoyed the video today. You know just like Mary Jesus can really help you in your life. If you love Him like Mary did he will also help you to be kind and generous to others just the way she was to Jesus. Don’t forget to ask your mum or dad to download the colouring sheet from our Facebook page to help you remember today’s lesson. I hope you have a really good week in school and I look forward to seeing you in church very soon. But Bye for now! Colouring Sheet http://www.supercoloring.com/coloring-pages/christianity-bible/jesus-resurrection Reflection ‘God’s Hidden Presence’ Two weeks ago, we celebrated Easter Sunday. It’s a high point of the Christian Year. But it also comes with an inherent danger. Having a special day to celebrate that Jesus is alive, can sometimes deflect from the reality that for us, every day is a Resurrection day. Christ is alive! We have His Holy Spirit now living inside us. His resurrection presence and power is available to us at any time and in every place. But at the same time, there is always mystery in the Christian life – things that are not easy to explain. Yes we have the Holy Spirit inside us. Often we do sense His presence and are very aware of His help and power. But, like the first disciples, there are also times when it feels as if the tomb is empty and our Lord is nowhere to be seen. I can think of a young Christian couple who have a 2 year old baby which has been diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumour. They are part of a church family which lost one of their youngest members to a freak choking accident at a church function despite being surrounded by several consultant medics. It’s at times like these when even the most spiritual of people are left with no answers and with many questions including, “Where is God?” That’s why over the next two Sundays I want to reflect on this reality of ‘God’s hidden presence’ even for those of us who understand that through the Holy Spirit God is always with us and has promised to never leave us. Today I want us to think about God’s hidden presence in the first resurrection appearance of Jesus to Mary. So let’s sit back as Emma reads it for us now… (End Part 3) Bible Reading Video John 20 v 1-18 Emma Anderson PART 4 Thank you Emma for reading for us… I’m always amazed at how God often makes the loudest statements through little details that seem almost hidden in the ancient text. In a culture where women were often treated as second class citizens it is hugely significant that the first person to meet the risen Jesus is Mary. She is the one who remains faithful no matter what. Her grief was as deep as the rest and yet while Peter, John and the other men cowered behind closed doors, Mary and the other women remained courageously faithful as they brought spices to anoint Jesus’ body. Where would we be without every faithful woman in our world and especially within the family of the Christian church? Mary Magdalene went one step further. Jesus had quite literally rescued her from a life of hell when he delivered her from the presence of 7 demons. Consequently, her love for Jesus was extremely deep. While it was still dark, she got up the next morning, and as the sun rose and birds chirped to greet a new day, she made her way past shops and houses to attend once more to the body of her Lord. Any of us who have lost a family member, a pet, or had our dreams shattered by a cruel twist of events, will understand how she must have felt. If the death of her beloved and the dashing of all that He had promised wasn’t bad enough, Mary must have been distraught when, arriving at the tomb, she found the stone door to be rolled aside, and Jesus’ body nowhere to be seen. The only thing left were the bandages they had lovingly and tearfully draped around his torso just a few hours earlier. Her immediate reaction was to run for help. Given the days that were in it, she probably should have gone to the other women. Despite his public denial it seems that Peter was still considered to be the leader of the group. So that’s where Mary ran to deliver the devastating news. “They’ve taken the Lord out of the tomb and we don’t know where they’ve put him.” Immediately Peter and John got up, left the room in which they were hiding, and ran towards the tomb, leaving Mary behind. John arrived first and eventually Peter caught up. Both were amazed to discover that what Mary had said was true. The body of Jesus was gone. The only thing left were the bandages that he’d been wrapped in, strangely folded and neatly piled where his body had previously lain. We’re not told when Mary arrived back or what conversations she had with the two men. But when they left to go home, Mary sat down and began to cry. Grief is like that. For many hours and days after the death of our loved one, the adrenalin and the practicalities of attending to their remains and burial keep us going. Often, it’s only later, when something triggers, that the tears begin to flow. Through tear-filled eyes she peered again inside the tomb. She must have frozen in fear or jumped with surprise. Two angelic figures were standing exactly where Jesus’ body had been laid! “Why are you crying?” they asked. “They’ve taken my Lord away and I don’t know where they’ve put him.” In that moment it seems Mary turns towards the exit of the tomb perhaps gesturing to the outside. As she does so, again she is startled. This time the Cemetery Gardener is standing at the door. He asks her the same question, “Woman, why are you crying?” Who is it you are looking for?” “Sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have put him and I will go and get him,” she replies. I find it fascinating that both the angels and Jesus ask Mary the same question- “Why are you crying?” I’m assuming that all 3 of them would have known why she was upset. You know in the painful experiences of our lives, God always knows why we are crying. He is never insensitive to our deepest fears and hurts, in fact, the Psalmist reminds us that God stores all our tears in a jar. Not one of them is lost to His love and care. Be assured- when we weep, God weeps. But at the same time, in our moments of quiet, isn’t it true that God often asks us, “Why are you crying?” For Mary and for us I feel that this is often simply a rhetorical question. God’s way of helping us to take stock even in the midst of our grief and to remember that whatever we are going through, today is still a resurrection day- Just as it was then, so too it is now every day. Christ is risen! That means we are never alone. He is always there to comfort and listen. Like Mary, through our tear-stained eyes it may be incredibly difficult to see Christ, but nevertheless He is there right beside us, even when we think He is the gardener. It may be that He comes to us through the disguise of someone else – a trusted friend, the author of a book or the composer of a song. In Mary’s case, God’s words came through their primary source. Amazingly it only took one word for Mary’s eyes to be opened and for her to see that the gardener was the risen Christ. “Mary!” he said. “Rabboni”, or “teacher” she exclaimed, as she got up, dashed forward and clung to Him with sobs of excitement and joy. You know in the midst of this Pandemic and especially in those times when we find it very hard to see God through our broken hearts and nights of tears, one of the greatest comforts we can receive is when God calls to us by name. When we consider the vastness of the universe and all the beauty of everything that God has made, when we reflect on the truth that God loves it all, it is mind-blowing to think that in the midst of it all, God sees you and He sees me! This is especially relevant in those times when we are finding it hard to see Him. The prophet Isaiah puts it beautifully in the 43rd Chapter of his book. He writes, “Fear not for I have redeemed you, I have summoned you by name.” Sometimes God seems far away, to Mary at the tomb, and to us, in so many cruel and painful circumstances of life. But then He whispers in our ear, “You are mine.” “Michael I know you by name.” I made you, you are precious to me. I understand your pain.” How amazing to know that we are not just a tiny part of some amorphous mass of humanity or some random evolutionary process. You are you, and I am me, unique, special, precious in the sight of the God who made us and loves us. Because this world has been infected by sin, it is full of disease and disaster. The enemy of God is also real and active in mysterious ways that we cannot fully understand. All of these things at times will result in pain and suffering in our lives or even worse, in the lives of those we love. There are no easy answers for these things. But when they happen and when our tears hide the presence of God, remember that He is still right beside you. Allow Him to come near as He whispers your name. He lived and died to understand your suffering. But he also rose again and is able to comfort and sustain you. I want to encourage you this morning, however much God is hidden through your tears, know that He is there, He knows your name and that when you weep, He weeps. In light of what I have just said, the final part of our story seems strange and difficult to understand. As Mary reaches out to grab our Lord he says to her, “Don’t hold on to me for I have not yet returned to the Father. Instead, go and tell the rest of the disciples that I am returning to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.” However gently Jesus spoke, this would certainly have felt like a rejection from Jesus, clouding just for a moment her sense of joy. You know, learning experiences can be happy or painful. But God is in them both, willing our good. Mary had happily realised that Jesus was alive. She must now slowly learn the painful lesson that soon he must leave them to return to the father. Mary would have to accept that she could not hold onto the Jesus that she had known forever. Like all relationships her relationship with Jesus would grow and change. She would have to learn to trust a Jesus whom she could no longer see but who would still be close through His Holy Spirit. You know there is much about God that we can know and be sure of. But there is also so much about Him that we don’t know and will never know. That means that growing and maturing in the Christian faith is a process that never ends. At times God asks us to loosen our grip on the things we know or currently hold dear, and reach out into the unknown trusting Him for new experiences. At times God can be uncomfortable, and unpredictable, inviting us to adventure and to break new ground in our walk with Him. I wonder are we willing like Mary to allow God to be unpredictable and to learn new lessons from Him even if it causes us to rethink what we have thought or how we have acted for years? As we travel the faith road we also discover that just as a mother gives greater freedom to their children as they get older, so as we mature, God encourages us to prayerfully take more responsibility for our own decisions. He invites us to think for ourselves and make wise choices, within the framework of His word. Of course, we must pray and continue to ask God for wisdom and guidance, but to always be waiting for God’s answers to descend down a spiritual drainpipe or to live like robots waiting for every instruction from above before we can move, is a sign of immaturity rather than the faith of a loving daughter or son. I wonder, do we have the courage to prayerfully make wise choices based on what we already know about God and His word? But above all, in this moment and in the days ahead, Mary would learn one of the greatest paradoxes in the Christian experience. God’s apparent absence only hides His presence. Soon Jesus would leave Mary and the rest of the disciples, but as a consequence the Holy Spirit would come. They would no longer be able to see or touch Him. But that absence would mean that he could always be with all of them, at all times, everywhere. Could it be that like Mary, it is through the experiences of life that make us feel that God has left us which drive us even closer into the realisation that He is right there with us? Along with Covid 19 there are many other things that threaten to keep us awake at night and to question God’s presence. For me, it’s things like young people’s mental health, the inability to visit our elderly family, including my grieving father, important examinations for our young people and young adults and the impact that lockdown could have on our church family. Yet strangely, I have found that the more stressful these things have become, and the more they have left me feeling that God has gone on mute, the more I’ve been driven to pray with a greater intensity and sincerity than I’ve probably prayed for many years. God’s apparent absence in this Pandemic has only hidden His presence, and it has definitely driven me into an even more intimate relationship with Him than I have known for quite some time. It is my prayer today, that God’s hidden presence, will drive you ever deeper into His arms and cause you also to discover that even though you cannot see Him in these times, He is even closer than He was before. Introduction to Song Let’s respond to what we’ve been thinking about as we worship God through a song led by the Peterson family called “I know who holds tomorrow.” (End Part 4) Song of Response “I know who holds tomorrow.” PART 5 It’s wonderful to know that even though we can’t see God or understand some of the things that happen that he is always with us and He is always for us and not against us. With that in mind, let’s take a moment to bring the needs of other people to God. Let’s pray… Prayers for others Pray for our government in all the difficult decisions that they are having to make and for everyone tasked with implementing their policies. We thank you for all the research and production operation that has gone into making vaccines. We pray that these vaccines might be able to be distributed fairly throughout the world. We ask that soon enough people will be vaccinated in every country to be able to bring this pandemic under control. In the meantime, give us patience and strength to carry on. We pray especially for all those people who are really struggling emotionally with the effects of lockdown. Lord help us to look out for one another and may all those who need help receive all the support and care that they need to help them through these days. We pray also today for all those who have been bereaved in recent days. We think especially of Mary Walker who lost her sister, Alison Crammond who lost her grandmother and for Robert Holden who lost his father in this past week. God may each one experience your comfort and find great strength and support from family and friends. We continue to remember all those who ill or in hospital and pray again especially for a full recovery for Father Padraig. Pray for Timor and nearby islands which were hit by Tropical Cyclone Seroja on Easter Sunday with severe winds, rains, floods and landslides causing loss of life and major damage to communications, roads, bridges and buildings. We pray that you will provide every support and comfort for all affected, especially for the leaders and members of our partner, the Evangelical Christian Church in Timor. Pray for the people of Brazil who are suffering greatly from Covid-19. Pray for the witness of the Presbyterian Church of Brazil, that leaders and members will bring God’s comfort and strength to many. Pray for students coming towards the end of their last semester of the academic year and preparing for exams. We thank you for all the staff in our schools and ask that you will continue to keep them safe and give them enthusiasm and motivation to help each child to achieve their full potential. We pray that you will particularly help those ion 3rd level education who are still having to work online. God provide them with all the support they need to achieve their best in such difficult circumstances. Pray that you will give wisdom, strength and perseverance to all our PCI chaplains who continue to offer pastoral support to students and staff in our Universities and colleges. Give thanks for people who use their talents and gifts in the business world. Pray that those working in businesses soon to re-open to the public would be equipped to make good and wise decisions following this long time of uncertainty. Take a moment in quiet now to bring your own prayers for one or two people or situations to God… All these prayers we offer in the name of the one who is alive and who is able to do far more than we can ever ask or imagine, Amen. Closing Words It’s been a joy and privilege to share in worship with you this morning. Thanks for logging on. I hope you’ve enjoyed it and found it to be encouraging. I’ve still no further confirmation of when our church can reopen for services but I’m hoping that it will be in the first half of May. I want to remind you to take your time and carefully complete the GDPR form that we have sent you out. Please make any amendments to any of the details that you would like us to hold for you and your family. And do ask all the relevant people in your household to sign the form. If you require any additional forms for a young adult in your household for example, then please just ask and we will happily send it out. Once you’ve completed please do drop it into Aleida or into me at the church in a sealed envelope. I’m conscious that many of us are weary and really struggling the longer the lockdown restrictions continue, so please do continue to keep in touch with one another and encourage one another. But for now, let me lead you in a Benediction after which I invite you as always, to say the grace together… Benediction God of life, may the promise of the sunrise be echoed in our minds. May the warmth of the midday sun flow through our hearts. May the peace of the sunset touch our souls. And when life seems dark teach us to remember that even then you are with us and that we will see your light again. And May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with us all now and for evermore, Amen.” APC 14th April 2021 ‘Sharing the Good News’ Part 1 Good morning everyone and welcome back to our Wednesday reflections. I want to begin by thanking our Moderator the Rev David Bruce for his wonderfully hopeful and thoughtful service on Sunday. It was not only a blessing to be able to take a break from my usual preparations last week but we were truly encouraged as we sat and watched his service at our kitchen table. Reflecting on it afterwards, one of the things that Emma and I loved was how David reminded us that sharing the good news about Jesus doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s simply about getting alongside people naturally as we go about our daily activities and when the conversation arises sharing with them what Jesus means to us. Following on from that, I thought today it would be appropriate to share with you another reflection recorded by a former Moderator who is much loved and well known by us all. The Rev Frank Sellar was minister of Adelaide Road church for many years after which God called him to minister in Bloomfield Presbyterian Church in Belfast. Frank is also the Convenor to the Council of Mission for Ireland. This is the branch of our denomination particularly focused on resourcing churches for outreach in Ireland. But just before Frank comes to share a reflection with us, sit back, as the Rev Jim Stothers gives us an insight into some of the work that the Council for Mission in Ireland currently supports, including our own here in Arklow. Jim is deputising for Rev David Bruce during his year as Moderator. (End Part 1) VIDEO Work of the CMI Rev Jim Stothers
Part 2 We are so grateful to everyone in Ireland who contributes to our Denomination’s ‘United Appeal’ every year. It is this financial stream that allows all of the work that you have heard about and so much more to continue to happen. As important as it is for us to financially support the work of full time outreach workers, it’s equally important for us to remember that it’s not just ministers, Irish mission workers, deaconesses and chaplains who are missionaries. You are an outreach worker too! Sit back then, as our former Moderator and friend, Frank Sellar, reminds us of this truth and encourages us not to be afraid to share the good news that we have received. (End Part 2) VIDEO Sharing the Good News Rev Frank Sellar
Part 3 Closing Words Our thanks to Frank for his challenging words. Our thanks to Helen for reading a difficult passage so well and it was also lovely for me to see Jonathan Rea and his two boys leading us in worship. Jonathan used to teach music right above me when I taught Biology in Bangor Grammar School many moons ago. Unfortunately I’ve no firm confirmation either from government or our own denomination about when we can return to church services but I’m hoping that it will not be too long now if the numbers of Covid infections continue to fall. As soon as I know, I will let you know. Please do continue to pray especially for all Fr Padraig as he continues to recover in hospital and for all others currently who are ill or who have ben bereaved. Do also remember our young people and young adults especially those for whom this year will be an important exam year. In a moment I will close with a benediction after which we will share the grace together. But before I do, let me encourage you to reflect on the truth that God is calling you to share the good news with the people you rub shoulders with everyday…Who are those people? How might God be asking you to share the good news with them?... Benediction Go now and proclaim the good news not just through words, but deeds – through what you say, what you do and who you are. May others, as they meet with you, meet with Christ and know His living presence for themselves. And May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirt be with us all now and for ever more, Amen. (END) APC 4th April 2021 “Easter Sunday” PART 1 Welcome and Introduction Good morning and welcome to our Easter Sunday Celebration. On Friday we left in silence and darkness as we felt the disillusionment and dejection of the disciples as they watched their master die. Today we will follow the ladies to the tomb as they faithfully pay their respects and put spices on their beloved friend’s body…They are in for a huge surprise. It’s my hope that as we reflect again on the resurrection that we too might be surprised to find that despite all that’s happened over this past year we still believe and we are still filled with hope and joy…Let us pray… Opening Prayer All loving and all powerful God, we thank you for this day and all it means – the assurance it brings that your love is stronger than anything else in heaven and earth – stronger than evil, than all human powers, than sorrow and suffering, than death itself. Accept our thanks for this day. Accept our thanks for everything. We thank you that in our world of so much pain and sorrow you have shown that hope and faith are not in vain. Your purpose is always at work, giving meaning to our seeking and striving after good. Accept our thanks for this day. Accept our thanks for everything. All loving and all powerful God, accept our praise for all you have done in Christ- a mystery before which we stand in awe, a wonder before which we bow in praise, a truth in which we live and move and have our being. Accept our thanks for this day. Accept our thanks for everything. In the name of the living and risen Christ. Amen. Introduction to Apostle’s Creed Since it’s Easter Sunday, rather than say the Lord’s Prayer together, we are going to say the words of the Apostle’s Creed. This is a wonderful prayer, reaffirming in a concise way, the most important things that Christians have believed right from the very beginning. So sit back and join in, as many of our church family lead us in the Apostle’s Creed- (End Part 1) Video- The Apostle’s Creed Part 2 Introduction to Opening Song I’d like to thank Emma and Philip for putting that together and for everyone who volunteered to play a part. You may or not be aware that our RTE Choir spent many weeks practicing the song “Sing Hosanna” with the accompaniment of brass instruments played by Rebecca Kearon, Kate and Laura O’Sullivan and their Silver Band leader Artur Bosy. Unfortunately, due to a last minute Covid Review, they were unable to play live on RTE last Sunday. So to honour all the work that they have put in and to show you what you missed out on last Sunday, sit back as we worship God together through the original version of our song… (END Part 2) Opening Song “Sing Hosannah with Brass” PART 3 Introduction to Kids Video We come now to the part of the service that is especially for the younger members of our church family. So if your kids aren’t beside you right now, why not pause the recording, and call them in to watch a short video about the Easter story. And at the end of this video I’ve a few words to say to the children so don’t let them rush away. (END Part 3) Kid’s Video Saddleback Kids – “The Easter Story, Jesus’ Sacrifice” Link https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HL8R158Ujp4 PART 4 Kid’s Talk Summary Hey boys and girls. I want to wish you all a very happy Easter. The Easter is story is so amazing. A couple of weeks ago we learned that Jesus died on the cross to take the blame for all the wrong things we do. Today we celebrate that isn’t the end of the story. Jesus didn’t stay dead. Three days later He came back to life again and spent another 6 weeks with his friends. We know that it’s true because so many of His friends saw him and then they told everybody else. After the 6 weeks were over Jesus went back up into heaven again. That’s where He is today. You know it’s fantastic to know that Jesus is alive today. Because that means when you talk to Jesus, when you pray, He really can hear you and He really can help you. Maybe you find it hard to do what your mum or dad says. Maybe you find it hard to share. Maybe you find it hard not to say certain words. Well, the great news is that because Jesus is alive, when you ask Him He will help you with the things we find hard. Jesus can really help you and me to be better people. This is the great news of Easter. Jesus is alive! He can give us the power to live right. I hope you have a really, really lovely Easter and that you get to eat lots of chocolate eggs. Don’t forget to ask your mum or dad to print off the colouring sheet to help you remember the lesson today. And don’t forget to tune in again next Sunday. Bye for now… Colouring Sheet Link https://coloringhome.com/he-is-risen-coloring-pages Introduction to Bible Reading Our bible Reading today is taken from Mark Chapter 16 reading from verses 1-8. “Jesus Rises from the dead.” Bible Reading Mark 16 v 1-8 “Jesus rises from the dead”” “When the Sabbath was over, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome bought spices so that they might go to anoint Jesus’ body. 2 Very early on the first day of the week, just after sunrise, they were on their way to the tomb 3 and they asked each other, “Who will roll the stone away from the entrance of the tomb?” 4 But when they looked up, they saw that the stone, which was very large, had been rolled away. 5 As they entered the tomb, they saw a young man dressed in a white robe sitting on the right side, and they were alarmed. 6 “Don’t be alarmed,” he said. “You are looking for Jesus the Nazarene, who was crucified. He has risen! He is not here. See the place where they laid him. 7 But go, tell his disciples and Peter, ‘He is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him, just as he told you.’” 8 Trembling and bewildered, the women went out and fled from the tomb. They said nothing to anyone, because they were afraid.” Reflection “Easter Sunday” Today is Easter Sunday. For me it’s the highlight of the Christian Year. Today we celebrate that Jesus Christ rose from the dead and is alive for evermore! If it’s true, it makes all the difference! All the difference to my life now, and every day. All the difference when eventually my life comes to an end. But is it true? Do I actually still believe it? Do you? For all of us, this past year has perhaps made it harder for us to believe than ever before. Certainly the fact that we have been forbidden to meet together hasn’t helped. Like a coal taken from the fire and set on the hearth, it’s easy to find our faith growing cold when we can’t meet face to face and encourage one another. By nature I’m a gregarious person. I’ve found this lockdown really hard. There are times like you, I’ve felt threatened in my faith. I’ve experienced the same fears and doubts that you have. So as I reflected this week on what I might say today about the resurrection, I found myself asking – after all that’s happened this year, do I really still believe it? Do I really believe that Jesus came back to life and is alive today? Or am I just hanging on, pretending, because at the end of the day it’s a job, and at my age, what else would I do? As I’ve searched my heart, deep down, I have found that my answer to that question is still a “Yes”. Sure, like the disciples who locked themselves away in fear of facing the same fate as their master, there have been times when I’ve queried whether everything I’ve believed in is all just a fairy tale. But then, also like them, as I’ve reflected, as I’ve prayed, as I’ve seen glimpses of the risen Christ in the world, I’ve discovered once again that actually, it is true, and I do believe! But why, as Jesus said, am I so blessed? How am I able to hold on to my faith even though I have never seen the risen Christ? Well for one thing I want it to be true. As you know my mum died during Covid from cancer about 9 months ago. Due to the lockdowns and travel restrictions I only got to see her headstone for the first time a few weeks ago. If I’m honest, I don’t think about her all the time, but last week as I was weeding in the garden I missed her a lot. She was an amazing gardener. There were questions I wanted to ask her and things I wanted to show her, but I couldn’t- she wasn’t there. But as I forked over the soil and saw the little green shoots poking their heads from the ground, as I looked at the new growth beginning to appear on the bushes and climbers, I was surprised once more by the evidence of resurrection! Like the disciples who heard stories that Jesus was alive, who touched the scars in his hands, who saw Him breaking bread at their table or heard Him calling to them from the beach as they fished, in that moment, I realised again – “it’s true!” The evidence of the power of creation was all around. The evidence of the power of God to bring about new life. And in that moment, my heart leapt for joy. Mum’s not dead, she’s just not here at the moment. Her headstone doesn’t mark a grave, it’s an empty tomb! Sure I miss her! But if Christ isn’t risen it’s a whole lot worse! But He is risen! And she is risen. And one day there’s going to be a great reunion! So I want to believe, because the thought of not seeing our loved ones again is just unthinkable. But I also believe because for me, the stories of the gospels ring so true. If the resurrection is a conspiracy, it’s not a very good one. If the alibi of the guards is to be believed – how were they not wakened when the disciples reportedly stole the body? And if they were asleep how did they know it was the disciples? Not that I believe the disciples, who were cowering in locked rooms, seemed capable of stealing a body and faking a resurrection. They were too afraid for their own safety to attend Jesus’ burial. And if they really wanted to promote such a victorious concept, would they not have concealed the reality of their unbelief? And, in a society where the courts scandalously didn’t actually accept the testimony of a woman, would you really want your prime witnesses to be the women? A conspiracy would have tidied up the eye witness testimonies – were there two white figures or just one? Why did Mary mistake Him for a gardener? No, the gospels are not presented as courtroom evidence to prove the resurrection happened. Rather the resurrection is reported honestly for what it was – a shocking surprise that no one was expecting. What was it that turned depressed, fearful and silent followers into a band of courageous advocates who would eventually give their very lives for the resurrection party? For me the story rings true. And lastly, like the disciples, at the end of the day I believe because I’ve actually encountered the risen Christ. It’s not that he has appeared to me in a dream or that He’s walked into my office. But when I knelt at the side of my bed 30 years ago and asked Him genuinely for the first time to become part of my life something happened. I can’t explain it. But it’s very, very, real. The Spirit of the risen Christ became part of me and from that day on it’s been different. That day, I began a genuine and real relationship with Christ. I don’t see Him, but I talk to Him. At times I sense very much that He is with me. I listen for His guiding voice as I read the scriptures and as I pray. And in the moments when I ask myself, am I actually going mad? I remind myself of what I know and have proven again and again and again to be true- When I pray, I am a much better man than when I don’t. Without question, Jesus Christ has made me a much less selfish person than I was before I encountered Him. What about you? Do you believe? Why or why not? It is my hope and prayer this Easter that all of us will take time to reflect on the stories of the resurrection and to ask ourselves these questions. For me again, the answer is “Yes.” I see evidence of God and His new creation power in every element of spring time. I want it to be true, because I know that a loving God would not want death and separation to be the final chapter. For me, the gospel record, just seems so unedited, not to be true. And at the end of the day, I encounter the risen Jesus every time I find the faith to pray. May I wish you and all your loved ones a very happy and a reassured Easter. Amen. Introduction to Song It was a real encounter with the living Christ that made all the difference to the first disciples. What a morning that was. For us, every morning is a resurrection morning. For Christ is with us by His Spirit, every moment of every day. So let’s join together to celebrate as members of the choir last Sunday lead us in the song, “See what a morning!” (End Part 4) Song of Response “See what a Morning” PART 5 Prayer for Easter Assurance Living God, we come to you on this day of celebration, conscious that there is so much in our lives that is uncertain, so much we cannot predict, so much we neither know nor understand. Assure us of the victory you have won in Christ. Remind us once more through this season that in all the changes and chances of this world you are an unchanging rock, an unfailing deliverer, an everlasting hope. Assure us of the victory you have won in Christ. Remind us as we continue to celebrate Easter in the days ahead, that your love continues through all things, your power is supreme over all things, and your presence is with us in all things. Assure us of the victory you have won in Christ. Give us this day, a sense of your greatness, a recognition of all you have done and a confidence in all you shall do. Assure us of the victory you have won in Christ. Living God be among us now we pray through the risen Christ. Help us to hear His voice, to offer him our service and to offer you our praise. Assure us of the victory you have won in Christ. We know that our hope is in you and in you alone. Help us to accept that, to live in that assurance and so to follow wherever you might lead us. Assure us of the victory you have won in Christ. For it’s in His name that we ask it. Amen. Take a moment now to pray for one or two people you know who need God’s help at this time…. All this we ask in the name of the one who died who is risen and ascended and will come again in glory, Amen. CLOSING WORDS It’s been a joy and privilege to share with you again today. Thanks again for logging on. I hope you’ve enjoyed our service. May I take this opportunity to wish you and all your families a very happy Easter. I want to say a big thank you to Dave Hendry for all the extra work he has put in this week downloading, and uploading and stitching the services together. I would also like to give a very special thanks to Alison and all the members of our choir and to everyone who has been so willing to contribute with the bible readings and prayers. We really are so blessed to be part of such a wonderful church family. With our Taoiseach’s announcement early this week there seems that there is Easter hope of church reopening at the beginning of May. So do pray that the vaccination program will continue to roll out successfully and that Covid numbers will fall sufficiently to allow that to happen. I honestly can’t wait to see you all again in person and to join in worship together. I’m hoping to take a rest this week so there will be no service this Wednesday. Please do tune in again next Sunday when our Moderator Rev David Bruce will lead the service for us. But for now, let me lead you in a Benediction, after which I invite you as always, to say the grace together… Benediction May the loving power of God, which raised Jesus to new life, strengthen you in hope, enrich you with his love, and fill you with joy in the faith And may the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with us all now and forever more. Amen. Good Friday Online Tenebrae Part 1 My Video Welcome and Introduction to ‘Tenebrae’ Tenebrae or ‘Service of Shadows,’ is one of the oldest church traditions for the commemoration of the Passion and Death of Jesus. It comes from the Latin word ‘tenebrae’- meaning ‘shadows’. Normally we share this service in an evening. The only light at the beginning of the service are candles dotted around the church. During the service, as the Passion story unfolds, the candles are extinguished after each reading and we pause for reflection. The darkness increases, until we reach the final reading, the death and burial of Christ. Following this reading the final candle is snuffed out plunging the church into complete darkness. Deliberately, the service ends with no benediction and no music. We are invited at the end of the service to remain for a few moments in quiet prayer, and then to leave in silence. This dark, subdued and incomplete ending reflects the death of Christ and a salvation incomplete until the later miracle of the resurrection. Obviously since today’s Tenebrae is online it will be somewhat different but I’ve tried to keep as many elements as we normally would. Different people from our church family have recorded the 7 readings of the cross. After each reading a flickering candle will appear on your screen for a short time. I would encourage you to spend this time in quiet reflection. There will be two online songs sandwiched between the readings. At the end of the service after our last reading you will see me carry a lit candle to my office door and leave. This will signal the end of the service. I encourage you at that point to spend a few moments reflecting on the darkness that covered the earth when Christ died and the despair that filled the disciples’ hearts and minds…. The service will proceed unannounced. Call and Prayer Today the carpenter’s hands are nailed to a cross, the King of kings is crowned with thorns and wears the purple robe of mockery. Today he sets us free, himself imprisoned on a tree. Today is God’s Friday. We come in worship. Let us pray… Holy and loving God, as we prepare to set aside our busyness and to focus intently on Jesus’ suffering and death, we ask for eyes to see all of the amazing things that Jesus’ death means for understanding you, your love, and our salvation. This we ask in Jesus’ name, Amen. (End Part 1) Part 2 (People’s video readings and flickering candle video) Reading 1: ‘Last Supper’ (Matt. 26: 17-30) Jamie Fenton Silent Reflection – ‘Flickering Candle Video’ Reading 2: ‘Gethsemane’ (Matt. 26: 36-45) Deon Theron Silent Reflection - ‘Flickering Candle Video’ Reading 3: ‘Jesus’ Arrest’ (Matt. 26: 47-56) Jean Hendry Silent Reflection - ‘Flickering Candle Video’ SONG “Yet not I” Reading 4: ‘The Walk to Calvary’ (Matt. 27: 27-32) Lara Prestage Silent Reflection - ‘Flickering Candle Video’ Reading 5: ‘Death’ (Matthew 27: 33-54) Pauline Wilson Silent Reflection - ‘Flickering Candle Video’ Reading 6: ‘Burial’ Matt. 27: 57-66) Laudimar Coelho Silent Reflection - ‘Flickering Candle Video’ (End Part 2) Part 3 My Video Reflection ‘Words from the cross’ Today as we reflect on the death of Christ on the cross, one of the most important questions we can ask is, “Why?” There are many answers to that, found in different parts of scripture. But today I want to spend a few moments considering two of the clues that come from the mouth of Jesus Himself. The gospels record just 7 short sentences that Jesus spoke from the cross. Throughout the centuries the church has cherished these ‘7 words from the cross’ as they are known because they give us an insight into the otherwise unknown thoughts of Jesus. Amazingly none of them were uttered in bitterness or complaint. The first 3, spoken to those who killed him, a dying thief and his own mother, express the love that He showed to others even in his final moments. The 4th and 5th express the spiritual separation and thirst he endured as He bore the judgement for the sins of the world. But today I want to focus on the last two which help us understand something of how a death which appeared to everyone as a defeat, was actually a final triumph and victory. His sixth cry was “It is finished!” Jesus had already privately told His disciples that he had completed the work he had come into the world to do. Now in his final moments He makes a public declaration of it. This was not a despairing groan of someone dying in resignation and defeat. Matthew and Mark record that Jesus actually shouted. In His own mind, His death was a resounding victory. The Greek verb that’s used here is in the past tense and literally means, “It has been and remains forever accomplished!” The writer of the letter to the Hebrews, explains to us that when Christ died on the cross He made a one time, once for all sacrifice for human sin. Up until this time, Jewish people had to make regular animal sacrifices for sin. It was a horrible, bloody and smelly affair. The whole point being that sin was something that is horrible because it causes us to experience guilt, it hurts other people, and it grieves the heart of God. But now that Christ, the God man, the only perfect human being had offered Himself as a perfect sacrifice, that whole system was finished. Through His death on the cross, Christ had taken the judgement for the sins of the whole world. That means there is nothing that we need to do or that we can even contribute. Christ has done it all for us. Our sins have been paid for. It is finished. To show that these words weren’t just an empty delusion, at that exact moment the thick curtain stretching from floor to ceiling in the temple was ripped from top to bottom. For centuries that curtain kept people from the presence of God. The only person allowed through the curtain was the High Priest once a year on the day of Atonement. But now that Christ had died, sacrifice for human sin once, forever had been made. That means that you and I can come right into God’s presence anytime, anywhere, without the permission or aid of anyone else because of what Christ has done. Which brings us to His final words, “Father, into your hands I commit my spirit.” It’s interesting that none of the gospel writers say that Jesus died. Mark and Luke say, “he breathed his last.” Mathew and John say, “He gave up His spirit”. The phrase used literally means “handing over.” John notes that before this handing over of His Spirit, Jesus bowed his head. This was surely His final act of surrender to His Father’s will. So by His very actions, and by His final words Jesus clearly indicates that His death was his own voluntary act. This is important. There were many occasions, not least during his 40 days in the desert when He was tempted to call down legions of waiting angels to rescue Him. But all the way He resisted. He could easily have answered the mockers who challenged Him by coming down form the cross. But He refused. No one took His life from Him. Jesus chose to die for your sins and mine. And so, Jesus’ last two words from the cross, “It is finished” and “I commit my spirit” proclaim that He is the conqueror of sin and of death. All that’s left, is for us is to believe it. To come to Him and lay our sins at His feet. To trust that he has taken the judgement that we deserve. To accept that the way is now open for us to come to God every day because of what he’s done. To allow Him to wash our conscious clean from the guilt of our sins. What’s more, we can live each day without the fear. Christ has defeated death. So whatever happens, no one and nothing can ever separate us from His love. Death will simply be the doorway to our new and perfect heavenly home. So can I ask you, “Who are you trusting in for today and tomorrow?” Yourself, the church, the minister or priest? Trust in Jesus. He is all you need. (End Part 3) SONG My God, my God why have you forsaken me? Reading 7: ‘Forsaken’ (Psalm 22: 1-21) Dave Twamley Part 4 My Video (Me reflecting in silence then blowing out candle to leave darkness remaining… END |
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