Dear Friends,
Now that we are well into the new year, February is a time to catch our
breath before preparing ourselves for Lent and Easter. We should take this
opportunity to listen to or read the stories of the call of the disciples,
as set out in our lectionary each Sunday and ask ourselves what we are being
called to do. We have each answered a call to worship God through Jesus
Christ; for some, this call would have come many years ago while for others
it will be more recent.
Whichever category you fall into, there is always something God wants us
to do NOW. God wills us to show forgiveness, mercy and compassion, just as
God bestows those gifts upon us. The ‘call’ is not always about preaching
from the rooftops. It can simply be a call to speak with someone with whom
we have been estranged, or write a letter or help a neighbour. We are
continually called to serve God in whatever capacity we can.
I have just acquired the new Methodist hymnbook and leave you with these
words from Martin Leckebusch:
Called by Christ to be disciples
Every day in every place,
We are not to hide as hermits
But to spread the way of grace,
Citizens of heaven’s kingdom,
Though this world is where we live,
As we serve a faithful master,
Faithful service may we give.
Richly varied are our pathways,
Many callings we pursue;
May we use our gifs and talents
Always, Lord, to honour you;
So in government or commerce,
College, hospice, farm or home,
Whether volunteers or earning,
May we see your kingdom come.
©1999 Kevin Meyhew Ltd.
Yours in Christ,
Maz