Words from Bede Circuit

Dear Friends

Hope you are all keeping safe and well.

‘Devote yourself to prayer, keeping alert in it with thanksgiving’ Colossians 4:2

I read the story recently of two friends who had to get to the island airport. They didn’t have any transport and so set off on foot hoping to hitch a lift. But there weren’t any vehicles on the road. They knelt down and screwed up their eyes in earnest prayer. When they opened their eyes, they saw the back of a bus disappearing into the distance; the moral of the story is watch and pray.

We have been encouraged to keep alert because of the ongoing threat of COVID-19. Keeping alert has been associated with illness, danger and even fear. Here Paul is associating it with thanksgiving. He rejoices despite his circumstances - he is in prison with no prospect of being released and he encourages us to be thankful for all that life brings, whether good or bad. He is able to count his blessings and recognises that God is at work. He is thankful for friends and companions. He doesn’t see his imprisonment as a hindrance to the spread of the Gospel. God’s love cannot be constrained by a cell or chains. He recognises the power of prayer.

Whatever our circumstances in these testing times, may we not forget the power of prayer. Let us keep our eyes open, be alert and see what God is doing.

Most importantly, may we be thankful to God for family, friends and rejoice for our brothers and sisters who minister with us in places and in ways that we can’t.

Prayer

We bring before you, O Lord, the troubles and perils of people and nations, the sighing of prisoners and captives, the sorrows of the bereaved, the necessities of strangers, the helplessness of the weak, the despondency of the weary, the failing powers of the aged. O Lord, draw near to each; for the sake of Jesus Christ our Lord.

St Anselm (1033-1109)

Sunday worship continues on Zoom at 10.30am and Wednesday morning prayers at 10am

There are services on Why-pay Conference call and please use the Sunday worship sheet if you are worshipping at home. Please contact the Senior Church Steward (Brenda Wallace) for more details: wesleymemchurch.pr@gmail.com

If you need any help or support please contact your pastoral visitor or Minister.

With good wishes and prayers

Revd Huw Sperring on behalf of the Bede Circuit staff team