The Rev. Nanette Lewis-Head led the worship on Sunday, which was opened by the choir, singing, 'God's Graceful Moment'. The choir was led by Mrs. Melanie Walker and accompanied by Mrs. Pat Stubbs.
Thomas Dunlop then read the young people's welcome and was thanked by Nanette. His reading "In every moment of our lives, in every step we take, when we awake in the morning and when we lie down to sleep, God is there," putting everyone in the right frame of mind.
Nanette responded with the words, "Let us pray and thank God for calling us together," followed by Psalm 86, "Teach me thy way O Lord, I will walk in thy truth, unite my heart to fear thy name."
News of members included the sad news of the sudden death of David Noot, the son of Mrs. Sheila Noot. Condolences were sent to the family on behalf of the congregation.
Talking to the children, Nanette spoke of the parable of the farmer who sowed the good seed and the farmer who sowed the weeds, introducing the theme of right and wrong. After which the young people left for their own worship to explore the parable further.
Mrs. Liz Storey then read the Old Testament, Isaiah, Chapter 44, verses 6-8, and the New Testament, Matthew, chapter 13, verses 24-30 and 36-43. "Our readings today speak with dynamic emphasis of the power of God, throughout scriptures we read of God's presence in the life of his people," Nanette began her address. All too often, however, we also ask, 'Why doesn't God do something when tragedies and disasters occur?'
But if we ask God to act on special occasions, do we really suppose that he could do that simply when we want him to and then back off again for the rest of the time? What would it be like if God were to rule the world directly and immediately, so that every thought and action were instantly judged and if necessary punished?
Rather we have to wait for the coming of God's kingdom and to communicate with him through a variety of ways; sometimes he speaks to us in the depths of our despair, sometimes he speaks to us when we are unable to pray, but just sit and listen to that still small voice that is God. God is a god of surprise, he meets us with hope, compassion and concern; we need to trust in his judgement. As we awaken to God's presence each and every day, it is then that we discover where we are. We are each a part of the glory of God.
After prayers of intercession, the choir sang the blessing, 'God be with you till we meet again,' to conclude worship.
Thank you, Nanette, for leading us in faith, also Melanie, Pat, Liz and Thomas for enhancing worship.
This Sunday's worship will be at 11 am and will be led by the Rev. Richard Laws. All are very welcome.