On the second Sunday in Lent our steward Keith placed a money bag on our Lenten cross, a
reminder of Judas Iscariot’s betrayal of his friend, Jesus. Jill & Neil read to us from Genesis 12, the
fall of Abram, and John 3, Jesus teaches Nicodemus. Rev. Roger Baker’s theme was new
beginnings.
Just as surgeons today can replace decayed limbs and organs so God can put new heart into
individuals, a spiritual rebirth. The process involves a search for truth in faith, never giving up.
God never deserts us. We can respond to his love. Jesus told Nicodemus he must be reborn
spiritually, rejecting old ways preoccupations and selfishness. John 3 v 16 shows how this is
achieved. The initiative comes from God whose essence is love which extends to the whole world.
The gift of his son broke the block that is caused by sin. Eternal life begins when we believe this
and call Jesus in to make a difference.
We sang To God be the glory and Roger prayed for our broken world, suffering people and for
peace to rebuild. In his blessing he prayed that we will go out in the hope of a new beginning.
New Beginnings
