A Bruised Reed Walking

As you will no doubt be aware, the recent covid-19 outbreak has changed everyone’s lives to a greater and a lesser extent. As a church we know that many members of our family will be self-isolating, working from home, or practicing social distancing over the coming weeks. We are hoping that through a series of blogs we can encourage you, and others who might be reading these blogs, to fix your eyes on Jesus, and respond to the crisis in a way which honours his will for our lives.

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Father, I need a break -
I step outside to clear my head.
the cold wind grips me, and I shiver
quickening my step, I feel it push back
it is a spring evening, normally streets are busy, but there is not a car in sight
few busses pass by, fewer passengers inside
people rush in and out of a 7/11 shop
I hear arguing in houses and on streets
the atmosphere is tense
our neighbourhood still has empty newbuilds
but it's in the middle of two estates,
I love this part of town, its people, its flavours, normally teaming with life
I walk past an elderly lady, carefully measuring her steps
a man hurries past, face covered deep under a hoodie
together we fight an invisible enemy
we help each other by keeping a distance

Lord, how is life going to continue?
Rumours spreading on social media
Fear creeping into feeds
Fact and fiction mingling, people keep sharing
Worries fill my mind

Then I turn a corner, what I see takes my breath away
out of nothing, a beautiful evening sky appears
orange, pink and purple light on fluffy clouds
it is marvellous, "I made heaven and earth" a voice pops into my consciousness
Thank you, God

I cross the road and notice sounds are softer near the canal
Instead of barking dogs and arguments, birds sing their eve songs
Cherry blossoms, strangely bright in this light
"Peace, I give you" the still little voice continues
I breathe in deeply, the wind tastes fresh
Warmth is spreading through my body as my muscles move
A tree boasts tender shoots on every branch
"I promise, there will be better days"
As nature holds its breath during winter, we too hold our breath
This spring seems to be delaying its relief
But we are invited to breathe freely, keep a clear head.
"Am I not in charge?" God's voice asks quietly
Crises come and go, people seem to forget
"Nothing new under the sun"
"Be courageous and strong. Do not be afraid"

These are exceptional times, but people tend to be the same
The ones who take more than they need, have always done so
Affluence and greed, another more subtle pandemic
Others serve their communities, and have always done so,

A less appreciated contagion
On a daily televised government status update, the Chancellor said, "We will remember how we took care of each other"
Coronavirus is a chance
What is my priority, my personal comfort or the public good?
"What you have done to the least of these, you did to me"
Jesus cares about our behaviour towards those in need, 
he identifies with them, he IS them.

As the sky loses its evening spectacle glow,
I head back home with a clearer vision for our community.
Covid 19 or not, “A bruised reed he will not break,
and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out.
In faithfulness he will bring forth justice” 
Isaiah 42:3

2020 Creative Vision

We've been thinking aloud about harnessing the creativity at Redeemer in 2020 and wondered if you'd like to get involved?

Why?

Jesus said: "But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." Matt 6:33

So what does 'seeking first God's kingdom' look like for those with creative gifting? Is the answer for this season different from a previous season? What does a step of faith look like for you given your gifts, your talents and the company you find yourself in?

We can help each other answer these questions.

Who?

'Creative' can be a difficult word to claim.  It can feel presumptuous.  But take an honest look at yourself - do you have a mind that creates? Do you imagine change? Do you take pleasure in making difference?

This creativity can come in different shapes and sounds. Whatever form it takes - we'd love you to come and join the conversation. 

(If you don't regard yourself as creative, nudge someone who is.)

How?

We will hold 2 Sunday workshops on 16 & 23 February in the Savoy Suite at UWL, 1pm to 2pm.

The aim of these workshops is not to create content, but to engage with as many as possible and explore ideas of what a kingdom approach to using our creativity looks like.

The workshops will overlap in content and folk do not have to commit to both, rather the idea of having 2 is to give more people the chance to participate.  However given a different mix of people these workshops will be distinct and you might like to attend both.

All ages welcome.

Curious?

If this is getting you curious, please come along.  If you have questions email stevejeff62@gmail.com .