The United Reformed Church Chesham

Dear Friends

Imagine with me a large colony of ants working away. They are co-operating to move large pieces of leaf along their line and all are busily involved. However much we would rather not have ants around in the house or garden, we cannot help but admire their industry and skills at working together. They shift objects far bigger than they are with seeming ease!

This image came to mind when I considered the events at our church in September. One week the church and hall were transformed into a Bazaar area and the next into a space for an Induction and tea. Like the ants there was a great sense of co-operation and tasks seemingly too big to tackle were achieved with great success! My congratulations and thanks to everyone who helped achieve this. The Church is the people, the body of Christ, working together in God's service.

Speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ. From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work. (Ephesians 4:15-16)

In Acts 6 we read that the group of disciples was growing, but as they were devoting themselves to prayer and teaching, waiting on the tables and the daily distribution of food was being neglected. So the twelve disciples instructed the group to choose seven men of good standing, full of the Spirit and wisdom to take on these tasks. Stephen was the first chosen and we are told he did great wonders and signs among the people. All roles are important in God's service, whether in the forefront and obvious or in the background and taken for granted. All the roles complement each other to achieve more than can be accomplished individually. We need each other with all our different attributes and idiosyncrasies!

Stephen was such a good witness to his faith and a hard worker that it was not long before he was arrested by the authorities of his time and stoned to death. Fortunately we do not face such opposition. We can speak and act openly. As we continue to plan for our building redevelopment, it is important that we use this opportunity to provide a church and hall that will complement our words and actions in God's service. A task that needs everyone involved and God’s guidance through our prayers and visions.

No task is too large with God beside us, let's support, encourage and have fun together as we enjoy the tasks ahead.

With love Bridget

An Autumn Prayer: As the leaves fall and are gathered up, help us to let our worries fall and be gathered up by you, Lord. Keep us in your peace and guide us in the days to come. Amen