“That’s one small step for man….
…..one giant leap for mankind.” I saw a photo still a little while ago of
the great moment when Neil Armstrong came up with those memorable words as he
stepped onto the moon’s surface over 40 years ago.
It got me thinking about big steps we take, not least that of faith. We are
still in the Easter season and therefore remembering the resurrection of Jesus.
It is an event that is too big a leap for many. It can seem very unreal and too
far from day to day experiences. This is particularly the case for people who
are having faith challenged by personal tragedy.
As I prepare sermons and write articles at this time of year I am very aware
that I can offer pointers to what the Resurrection means in everyday situations.
(When we recognise good overcoming evil despite the odds against it, we are
glimpsing the Resurrection.) But I am also aware that to make it more real, we
have to be like Neil Armstrong. We have to leap into the dark in faith and trust
that all will be well.
It’s rather like learning to ride a bike or to swim. Somebody can explain
what to do but you have to get on the bike or into the water to really get to
know what is being talked about and what to do. To really learn we have to do.
The Easter faith is about being prepared to go into the unknown – and finding
it is good. As we do so, things slowly begin to make more sense; we begin to see
what happens in the world differently and know that God is at work.
On May 13th it is Asceniontide. Having been resurrected, Jesus
ascends into heaven. This is the time Christians recognise that God reigns on
high – for them, in their hearts. Another leap of faith? Yes. Another one that
we might not, at one level, understand, but that can begin to make more sense
when we immerse ourselves in God.
Having enjoyed the Easter eggs, now explore further the adventure that is God
in Jesus, the risen and ascended Christ.
Paul Wilkinson
The country decides
The long anticipated General Election is all but upon us. In thinking through
what to say about it, some ideas came to mind – and then I read the Bishop’s
article. He’s said most of what I had in mind, so I encourage you to read it.
However, there are a couple of other thoughts I would like to add.
Firstly, Christian concern is for those who are most vulnerable in the
community. If you come under the heading of ‘undecided’ ask yourself which
party is offering most to those who fall in that category. That is to use your
vote positively, even sacrificially.
The Bishop asks us to hold the present is enveloped in prayer. I ask you to
pray for all candidates, for those who are elected and those who are not. Pray
also that those who will lead the country do so with vision and humility, for
they are being called to high office and responsibility. May God bless them.
Paul Wilkinson
Congratulations….
…..to Brian Dunlop who will become a Non Stipendiary Assistant Curate in
the South Cheltenham Team Ministry serving his title at Emmanuel Church when he
is ordained at Gloucester Cathedral on June 27th.
A coach will be going from St Peter’s, so look out for details.
Brian will be missed at St Peter’s, but he will, of course, be exercising a
ministry within the Team.
Paul Wilkinson
May 2010