Last Sunday we welcomed Rev. Jon Chesworth from Wem to lead our worship. He began with a 4th century Persian statement: “Longing for you we are crowned with joy…” and a Metal Methodist prayer giving thanks for a new day welcomed with God as our leader.
Guy read from Luke 17, Jesus heals ten men. Jesus was on his final journey to Jerusalem but set aside his preoccupation with what would face him there to stop and heal the lepers because he cared for them as he does for us. Jesus has time for ordinary people. We can share our troubles with him. Our prayers may be answered by giving us a different perspective which helps us to deal with our problems. Following Jesus’ example we should value outcasts treating them courteously as people we can help either directly or by supporting charitable organisations. What are we called to do at present?
Before our intercessory prayers Jon asked what concerned us currently. We prayed for the peace moves in Gaza, for our ministers, for those who are ill and those who mourn. Our final hymn was The church of Christ in every age….to care for all without reserve and spread His liberating word. Jon closed with a prayer that we adhere to righteousness when our leaders go astray.