Today
We have the last of our series based on the praise offered by various people in the Bible accounts of Christmas: Simeon’s praise (Luke 2:29-32). The preacher will be Martin Cooper.
Warm Space:
A reminder that our church hall will be open as usual on Friday 10.30 to 1.00.
Prayer & Toast:
Saturday 7th January at 8.30 am at 221 Gunville Road. Everyone is welcome.
Sunday 8th January:
Our preacher will be Rev Dennis Lloyd.
A reminder that our Covenant Service will be on 15th January.
Message from our Minister:
New Year is often a time when people look to make a fresh start and resolve to do things differently. However, how many resolutions are broken having fallen at the first hurdle? It is one thing to make a number of promises but quite another to have the resolve, determination and will to keep going when things get tough. We can often find ourselves tripping over the same old things and having to face our vulnerabilities and weaknesses.
The Methodist Covenant Service offers us all a rich and meaningful opportunity to make and renew our promises to God. It reminds us of God’s loving initiative and his gracious promise to us. We are invited to look at where we are in our journey of faith. We are given the assurance of God’s presence with us and his strength to help us. We are encouraged to step forward in our commitment to Jesus and to grasp new opportunities of witness and service.
It is often said that each new and exciting journey starts with just one step forward. We can sometimes find ourselves rooted to the spot, however much we long to move forward. Gentle and persuasive encouragement is often needed. What might that one step forward in faith be for you this New Year? What are you being challenged to do differently this year in your witness and service for Jesus?
Let us remind ourselves that every step forward with Jesus is grounded in hope. As the writer to the Hebrews says, ‘Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful’. (Hebrews 10:23)
Marian and I wish you all a joyful New Year!
God’s richest blessings to you all, Rev John Izzard
GOD’S PROMISES (answers at end of newsletter)
Support with the cost of living:
If you know of anyone who has a problem affording food and heating, support is available from Newport and Carisbrooke Community Council. Information and forms are available on the notice board at the back of the church, or contact (01983) 559119 or info@newportwight.org.uk.
Favourite Song?
Those who lead worship or preach have the privilege of choosing the songs for our services. But is there a song which is a favourite of yours, or means a lot to you, which we don’t often sing? If so, please jot it down on a piece of paper, with your reason for wanting to sing it, and give it to one of the worship leaders. We will try to fit in requests as appropriate.
I HAVE RESOLVED…
This year, I will consider taking up a new hobby such as procrastination. – Or maybe later.
I see no need to make more New Year’s resolutions when the ones already on the books aren’t being enforced.
May all your troubles last as long as your New Year resolutions.
GOD’S PROMISES – quiz answers
