Letter from our Minister

Dear Friends,

November, the month of remembrance, beckons!

On the Sunday when we celebrate the Lord’s Supper we shall remember in a very special way our Lord Jesus.   Also on that day we shall remember the communion of saints, that family of God in heaven and on earth.  The Sunday after sees us remembering all who have given of themselves in times of war.

As we know not all memories are good or helpful. At times the last thing we wish to do is look back but there are times when it is the right thing to do, the Past can set us on the right path into the Future!

On Remembrance Sunday we are encouraged to think of those who served, and who serve, in times of war.  We remember that we are in the debt of those whose courage, bravery, loyalty and sense of service are offered on behalf of all.   We remember too that Peace often comes at a great price, and for those who have paid that price we especially give thanks.  When I come to Church on Remembrance Sunday I am reminded that my life is bound up in so many ways with other human beings; that what I enjoy in respect of the society to which I belong, the freedom I have, is made possible by others. Remembrance Sunday encourages those who think they owe no-one anything to think again!

On Communion Sunday we remember Jesus, particularly in relation to his Cross. Again the thought of pain and sorrow are brought to our attention in the death of Jesus, but more than that is before us at Calvary.

As I said, peace often comes at a great price.   The Cross, the central symbol of the Christian Faith, is believed to be the place where God and humankind are reconciled.  As human beings we are constantly ‘at war’ with God, peace needs to be made, and this is made possible by Jesus.  His outstretched arms embrace all with divine love. In the Cross God is telling the world, “I love you”, for in Jesus God comes to us to show how precious we are to Him, and to call us back into relationship.   We are the ones who create the problem, God is the One who offers the solution.  There are lots of beliefs within the Church about what is happening on the Cross but ultimately all expressions of belief say this: God loves, forgives and restores.

This is an important month, the month of remembrance.  It can speak to us greatly of what’s so important for our living, truths that span the generations and which encourage us to look to that love from which nothing, not even death, can ever separate us.

Joe

Pastoral Needs

Please inform the Minister if you are ill, in hospital or facing particular difficulties.  If the Minister knows about your needs he will endeavour to offer every possible assistance.  Contact him at the Manse or by phone on 0141 616 2410.

The Pastoral Group makes regular visits to the elderly, infirm, housebound, those in a care home etc.   Please inform Eileen Mercer on 0141 639 1189 if you know of anyone who should be on our list.   We will be very pleased to visit them.