From P. J.: Scripture helps us defend our faith. The apostle Peter instructs believers to be ready with an answer for our hope and faith in Jesus. Scripture also helps form our character. Paul makes it clear that the Word of God is alive, active, and pierces our souls. And since God’s Word is so powerful, we should commit some passages to heart so God can work in and through us.
February 2nd – Psalm 139:14: I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.
Joan Green is out of hospital and continuing her recovery at home.
The Kingswood Foodbank is in need of fruit juice (both picnic size and large), tins of meat & tomatoes, cooking oil and dried dog food. Thank you very much.
Those of you living in South Gloucestershire, are you aware that black bin collections will switch from 2 weekly to 3 weekly in May?
Tomorrow is Candlemas, presentation of Jesus in the temple. In Belgium, it is customary to eat pancakes. All the candles in the house should be lit. It is believed that a clear sky on Candlemas foretells a beneficial year for beekeepers.
Wednesday (4th) is World Cancer Day.
Next Sunday is Racial Justice Sunday.
Lectionary 1st to 7th February. Micah 6.1-8; Psalm 15; 1 Corinthians 1.18-31; Matthew 5.1-12. What does God require? The passage from Micah implores the people to do what God requires after rebuking how they have lived in the past. God presents his case against the people, reminding them of his faithfulness to them and that he does not require sacrifices or burnt offerings, but just and loving actions. Today’s readings may be a culture shock because, unlike the people of Micah’s time, we don’t envisage bringing livestock or groceries as offerings to worship. In contrast, the Beatitudes in Matthew explore what we can bring in our behaviour and interactions.
The purpose of Kingswood Methodist Church is to respond to God's Love in Christ and to live out that love in God's world.