Songs on Sunday evening included 'Mercy over me' by Rob Critchley and 'Here I am to Worship' by Tim Hughes.

The pastor's sermon began with a farmyard story. None of the other animals at the farm seemed concerned when the rat announced that he had seen a new rat trap in the house, but the story went on to show how the whole farmyard was at risk from that simple object; a little parable to challenge complacency. "When there is a rat trap in the house, the whole farmyard is at risk."

In the third of his studies on biblical speakers of the words, 'I have sinned,' Rev. Peter Richmond preached from the book of Joshua. Achan spoke those words after Israel had suffered an unexpected defeat and he had been discovered as the cause. The spoils of their previous victory at Jericho were regarded as sacred to the Lord, but Achan saw it as plunder, coveted it, stole some of it, and concealed it. The presence of these simple objects was an offence to the God of Israel; soldiers had died in defeat and Achan's whole family were complicit.

If only Achan had waited, there was plenty of treasure to be had from their next victory, but it was too late for him or his family.

No-one can be sure whether Achan's confession was a sign of repentance or just regret at being found out. A doctor once noted that out of 1,000 patients who made confessions and promises while they were at death's door and then subsequently recovered, only three remembered their promises and turned from their former sins.

"Be sure your sins will find you out" are words written in scripture to God's people.

Hesed services are held in the Avenue Centre at 6 pm on Sundays. Telephone 01646 681805 or visit http://www.hesed.co.uk">www.hesed.co.uk for more information.