Dear Friends,
On my desk in my study, I have a little book of Christian inspirational sayings, one for each day of the year. I was particularly was struck by the one for today (4 June) which in essence says that a good and lively church fellowship can be recognised by the obvious happiness of its people. I would want to add to that the fact that when there is a buzz of excitement when the congregation gathers for worship inside the church building, then there will also be a real enthusiasm for the gospel message outside the building too. And it is remarkable how many visitors comment on the buzz of enthusiasm they encounter when they come to worship in our churches.
This weekend we celebrate the Feast of Pentecost, that time when the Holy Spirit came to the frightened and dispirited disciples and transformed them into people who were confident in the good news of the gospel. Indeed, they became so confident that through their enthusiasm to share the gospel, that message reached every corner of the world. And it is because of them that we are here today.
We in our churches have so much good news to share in both word and action. Let us not be reticent about it, but let us take every opportunity we can to enthuse others. Enthusiasm when used effectively, can be very contagious!
Next week this letter will be written by our Session Clerk, Dr Michael Carslaw as I will be in sunny (I hope!) Spain walking from Leon to Santiago de Compostela. During the time when I am away our Interim Moderator Rev Alastair Symington will be looking after the pastoral needs of the congregation.
With love and blessings,
Marion
Categories: Minister's Blog