Rector's Thoughts

  A November Thought

 "Grace and peace to you in the name of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ! "

Often our Christian services begin with the words above. Because we use them so often we forget what we're asking God for.  As we step into the beautiful month of November, we are reminded of the power of gratitude. I love Derbyshire when it's bright and cold weather and there is a  mixture of colours.  Even a bright frost is so refreshing, it reminds us of plants, trees and shrubs dying yet we know that new life will return. 'Grace' mentioned in the line above reminds us to live deeply in the present moment. With thanksgiving and joy in our hearts the sorrows of this life can and will truly change like the seasons.
This November will be the anniversary of my dad's death. But my dad had deep faith and trust in God. So sorrow and joy live side by side. I'm sure many of you have your own stories of joy and sorrow. In November we also remember all who have died in wars and conflicts. That's where the second important word comes to the fore, 'peace'. If we hold dear the names on our War Memorial we must work for peace. Peace in our hearts and community. Working for peace isn't about us acting like hippies, and being meek and wishy washy. No! We must have courage, hope and trust in the God who calls us to care for His world, creation and people. We are called to stand up for the needy and the people crushed by life's circumstances.

 Before the season of Advent we are called to take seriously this season which is called 'Kingdom Season'. This season invites us to pause, reflect, and thank God for His abundant faithfulness in our lives and to offer to God our joys and sorrows, our hopes and fears. Finally, it is also a time when many people have mental health problems. We must keep our eyes open for the needs of all people. God bless you and your loved ones living and departed.

This past year we've seen  both challenges and victories, yet through it all, God has remained our constant help. Psalm 107:1 reminds us, “Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever.” Whether in times of joy or trial, cultivating a heart of thanksgiving shifts our perspective and draws us closer to Him.

With love and prayers.

Stephen Monk