Deeper Bible

Dear Oaks,

One of the ways we shall be digging deeper in to the bible this term is by looking at some of the key characters in scripture.  Of course we shall include both men and women.

Partner sought for vast creative endeavour.  Global plans.  Unlimited compensation with a particularly generous pension plan.  Immediate responsibilities include maintenance of large property, care and authority over all kinds of creatures – flying, walking, creeping and crawling.  Object:  teamwork and companionship.  Only females need apply.  Contact Adam.

From the very beginning God’s women have had major roles in his redemptive purposes.  Just think of the likes of Sarah, the wife of Abraham, or Ruth, or Queen Esther or the leader that was Deborah.  These women were all greatly used even in the Old Testament and when you move to the new there is of course Mary, the mother of Jesus and others that supported the ministry of Christ.  Just think for a moment how important both Mary and Martha were to our Lord and Saviour.  See Luke 10:38-42.

In Christ both men and women have an incredible job description.  Together we are to care for the planet and all of God’s creation.  Together we have authority in Christ’s name to advance his kingdom waging war on poverty, injustice, oppression, exploitation, sickness and more.

As we look at some of the main biblical characters we shall discover more about God’s purposes; more about the kind of people he uses; and I hope we shall be encouraged that though the world and sometimes the church puts barriers in the way; God is willing to use us whatever our background, history; record of sin; felt inadequacy; gender etc.

Each one of us will decide what limit to put on how God uses us.  But remember he wants to do immeasurably more than we can imagine.

Yours in Christ,

Mark

Ps please note we shall be in the café area at Twyford for our meetings for a while.  I am genuinely pleased that we have the opportunity to do things a little differently as we practice for our move in to 216.  We are working hard on the sound and visual elements of our services which need to be tweaked in a new venue. Please bear with us.

A reminder for all on the Healing on the Streets team that we could do with one or two more volunteers for this Saturday.  I really enjoyed it last week and look forward expectantly to what he will do through us this week.  If you can help please email me back or contact Ruth in the office.  Both genders may apply!