Our Vicar writes...
Dear Friend,
Happy New Year! These words roll off the tongue all too easily, and can therefore be said without giving very much thought to what lies behind this sentiment. As Christians what we are really saying is, may this year bring you rich blessings from our heavenly Father; may he grant you peace, health and the knowledge of his constant presence. In every circumstance, both good and bad, may you have faith to see that the Lord is working out his good purposes and will in your life, for his glory, so you may live joyfully each moment.
There can be no higher calling or purpose in life than to live as a Christian – a child of the living God. As children, we are promised so much – nothing less, in fact, than a perpetual share in the infinite glory of God. As we begin this year, a significant one in so many ways, may we hold fast to God’s promises, made so clear for us in his word, so that when we reach the end of 2012, (which will no doubt arrive sooner than we think!) we can be full of thanksgiving for the blessings we have received.
As we at St Matthew’s celebrate our fortieth anniversary in this building, we begin by looking back to the original church on George Street. I hope you will be able to join us on February 4th – see details elsewhere. If you have any special memories of the old church, we would love to hear from you – please get in touch with me, or Terry in the office, so we can paint as complete a picture as possible of the worshipping life of our community, and the impact this has made on people’s lives.
One promise we need to hold on to is that nothing – past present or future – is hidden from God’s eyes. This means that whatever this year may hold in terms of uncertainty, anxiety or trial, our Father in heaven is constant in his faithfulness and love and he will never let us go.
May 2012 be a truly Happy New Year for you.
With love and prayers.
Simon