A major highlight for me over the last couple of weeks has been the coming together of a young adult's group: Growing in Faith Together. Mel Armitage and Audrey Spencer came up with the idea of studying the book of Daniel, though were a little nervous when thinking about the complexity of Daniel's dreams. All I can say is that I am so glad that they didn't back down as our young adults explored themes including Faithfulness, Repentance and Forgiveness. The depth of exploration, discussion and application was moving to say the least.
There is a saying that the Old Testament is Jesus concealed, the New Testament is Jesus revealed. When we read the Old Testament, it is a good thing to look out for Jesus. Could that fourth person in the fiery furnace, saving Shadrack Meshack and Abednego, really have been a manifestation of Jesus before his birth? (this is known as a Christophany). And what of the Son of Man in chapter 7, who is given authority and sovereign power and is allowed to be worshipped in front of God? And in chapter 9 who is the 'Anointed One', announced by no other than the Angel Gabriel, who is 'cut off' and comes to put an end to sacrifice? Could it possibly be the same Anointed One (the meaning of Christ) whom some 500 years later, Gabriel declares is to be called Jesus (which means Saviour)?
How we need God to raise up 'Daniels' amongst our young adults today: Those who being counter cultural, will strive to be faithful to God's every Word; those who come to repentance when realising that they have strayed and those who know the depth of Jesus love, as He died on the cross to bring the healing and wholeness and forgiveness that we need.I am so very much looking forward to seeing how our young adult's group might develop.
August Prayer Challenge Here at St Thomas' we are wanting to put Prayer at the top of our agenda. Prayer is arguably the most important thing we can do as Christians: when we pray, something happens! Following our Interactive Prayer Day, Ruth Coates has devised an August Prayer Challenge. Focussing on 9 different areas, the challenge can be done from your home or via walks throughout Bradley. Please look out for the prayer challenge booklet in church for more information.
Holidays and Holy Days We have now moved well into the season of summer holidays. Of course, that word holidays is derived from the word holy days, special days when people stopped working to attend worship and honour God. Our days of rest (sabbaths) and our holidays are God designed and God given times of rest. During this coming month I am looking forward to taking some time out for a retreat and for holidaying with family. Do find time during your holidays to honour Him who has provided so much. Whether at home or away, have a restful and most God blessed August.