A New Term

Well we are back in to a new term in the life of the church.  I do hope you had a good summer and time to rest, relax and have plenty of laughs. We had a great one although saddened deeply by the loss of our beloved Airedale Terrier – Kezzie.  She died suddenly aged just seven at the beginning of August.  A vicarage puppy is now on the scene and is known as Jonah, whom you may remember from the Old Testament ran away His master in the wrong direction.  The name seemed appropriate somehow!  He is a Labrador Cross and just 10 weeks old.

It has been enlightening to start dog training again.  One of the key methods is to use positive reinforcement of good behaviour.  We praise every obedient response with words and sometimes treats.  Indiscretions are presently ignored whilst trust and bonding happens.  The power of encouragement can never be expressed too often.

Think for the moment about who it is in your life that has had the most influence for good.  I suspect it was someone with a well developed gift of encouraging others.  It certainly seems to be working with Jonah although there is a little way to go.

In Acts 4:32-37 we read about a man called Barnabas who was known as the “son of encouragement.”  What a great description to be given.  We read how Barnabas sold some land and brought the proceeds to the apostles for the care of the poor and needy in v47.

As you will know we are soon to launch our new Core Groups. My prayer for them is that YOU will attend one and be a Barnabas to others.  You may not have land to sell or money to give but anyone and everyone can encourage others to mature in their faith and walk with God.  These groups will be times for spiritual discussions and opportunities to minister to each other in the power of the Holy Spirit.  Already about 40 people have signed up.

If you still haven’t then let me encourage you to do so just as soon as you can, and by the end of next week at the latest.

Jonah is learning quickly that to obey his master brings a reward.  It is the same with our following of Jesus.  Obedience treats us to the peace and the presence of God.  Let us pray for the spirit of Barnabas to infuse our Core Groups and our whole fellowship.