Luke Ch15 v11-32
The month of September heralds the start of the Methodist new year when we resume our normal services and activities after the summer break. 
For some, September is the time to start doing something new and different. It might be starting a new school, job or taking up a new hobby. Whatever new things we decide to do or new experiences we have in own personal lives, family, work or church life - we can be assured that wherever or whatever we are doing, God is with us.

One of the things that makes me feel anxious is flying. If I can avoid it, then I will. I much prefer travelling on a bus from the Newcastle to Wales than flying on a plane. My stress on a plane really begins when one of the attendants says something like this “We’d like your attention for a few minutes while we show you some of the safety features of this aircraft…” The attendant then shows you how to fasten the seat belt, and advises you to keep it fastened during the flight. You are told the number and location of the emergency exits. And how, in the event of a sudden loss of cabin pressure, an individual oxygen mask will be lowered in front of you. You are told that under the seat there is a life-jacket for use in the event of having to ditch into the ocean. The idea behind all this is to help passengers be prepared for the unexpected. But few pay attention to what the attendant is saying. If anything, it serves only to further unnerve the nervous.

I am writing to you in the days leading up to Pentecost. The sun is shining through the study window. A beautiful day to thank God for His creation.

Before the coming of the Holy Spirit, the apostles were virtually living in hiding in the upper room. A great task had been entrusted to them, yet they neither had the strength or the will to begin it. But after Pentecost they were changed people.