Dear friends
I am reminded this week that we have a God who sees us. It was Hagar in the Old Testament, pregnant to Abram and on a dangerous journey through the desert fleeing for her homeland who was met by the angel of the Lord who “found her” (Genesis 16:7). The angel tells Hagar what she should do and Hagar, encouraged by these words, calls God ‘El Roi’, the God who sees. First God sees Hagar (Genesis 16:7-12) and then Hagar sees God (Genesis 16:13-16). Hagar felt God’s compassion for her and trusted God for her present and her future.
We too can call on ‘El Roi’ today and can trust that whatever we have experienced this week, God sees us. Today you may want to recognise ‘El Roi’ as Hagar did and know His love and hear His words to you.
Tomorrow, we continue in our series about fruitfulness as we look at the fruit of the spirit at café church. It starts at 11am and is planned to finish at 12. There will be drinks and breakfast pastries/fruit for all. Thanks to those who have helped set up this week. You can also join online on the Moortown Baptist Church YouTube channel. Rachel will be running a dementia awareness training session after the service tomorrow which is open to all. She can take about 10 at a time so do let her know if you want to join.
Our groups continue to meet next week with Beacon café, house groups (I know we have one in church on Wednesday at 7.30) and there are others. There’s bible study in church at 10am on Friday. I am working on making groups clearer for people to find out about. Do get in touch of you want to join a group. Craft group is open to all on Thursday. Steppingstones and lunch club meet again this week.
Next Sunday we look at fruitfulness and planting on Remembrance Sunday from James 3:13-18. There will be a group for our younger members during the talk. The service will start at 11am.
In the afternoon Shelley will lead a simple short service in church for all who want an opportunity to remember those who they miss who have died. We will light a candle for each one. It will take place in church at 4pm.
On Monday, following Beacon, there is a short get together for anyone wanting to support ‘warm spaces’ in the daytime midweek. I know this isn’t good for those wanting to help on a weekend or evening (we haven’t committed to this yet) but we thought we’d start somewhere. If you help with Beacon or have expressed an interest in warm spaces and can make it on Monday after Beacon at 12.30 then come along. If you come to Beacon feel free to bring your lunch as we chat. If you can’t make it and want to help on other days, such as contributing to hospitality at café church or other times then can you let me know? Thanks so much.
Thanks to all those who attended the church meeting and have contributed to healthy discussions. We are still replying to people following that meeting. Thank you for your prayers, patience, and action.
In Christ
Shelley