Rev. Helen Kirk opened our service last Sunday by declaring “the Lord is here; his spirit is with us.” Richard Lucas read to us from Luke 15, the lost sheep and lost coin. Helen explained that the sheep was a valuable asset and the coin would have been part of the woman’s dowry thus vital to her identity. Helen then talked about the pain of loss. We experience it in many forms, geographically, financially, healthwise, socially, a longing for the way things used to be, the absence of integrity. People lose faith when their beliefs are based on a personal agenda.
Jesus told parables to help us to understand the true nature of God. In his constant love he never ceases to retrieve those who lose sight of him. He does not accept collateral damage. Knowing this changes who we are and how we regard others. God’s whole purpose is unity. With his help we can overcome our weaknesses. Christians may feel marginalised today but we must stand by the teaching of Jesus.
After we sang Love divine, all loves excelling Helen led prayers for our world, our churches and those of concern to us. She then served the Lord’s supper and we concluded our worship by sharing the Grace.