Advent – Joy

In a world often laden with challenges and uncertainties, pursuing Joy becomes a journey of hope. C.S. Lewis once eloquently stated, “Joy is the serious business of Heaven.” This wisdom resonates as a reminder that Joy is not merely a fleeting emotion but a deep and meaningful aspect of our spiritual journey—a gift of the Spirit that transcends circumstances and enriches our lives in ways we might not fully grasp.

The concept of Joy is intricately woven into the fabric of our faith, signifying a joy that goes beyond momentary happiness. It is a joy rooted in the eternal truths of God’s love and grace. As believers, we are called to seek and cultivate this Joy at all times, understanding that it is not based on our external circumstances but on our relationship with the divine.

In the Bible, Joy is a fruit of the Holy Spirit. In Galatians 5:22-23, Paul lists Joy alongside love, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control as qualities that characterize a life led by the Spirit of what it is to be a Christian. This underscores the importance of Joy as a transformative force in our faith journey.

A great way to pray with Joy in mind is through gospel contemplation. This practice involves immersing yourself in the words of the Bible, not just reading them but allowing them to get into the depths of our hearts and minds. By engaging in gospel contemplation, we can uncover different perspectives and views that reveal the Joy in the words of scripture.

We find joy all in the Bible: John the Baptist leaping in the womb at the news of Jesus’ conception, the prodigal son returning to the Father in Jesus’ Parable, and the shepherds hearing the good news of Jesus’s birth.

Gospel contemplation invites us to meditate on the Bible, allowing the Joy within them to resonate within our souls. It enables us to see beyond the surface and discover the profound truths that bring Joy into focus.

Through this practice, we can uncover the Joy of redemption, the Joy of divine love, and the Joy of our eternal hope in Christ.

Moreover, gospel contemplation opens our hearts to Joy even in challenging passages. It reminds us that Joy is not the absence of difficulties but the presence of God in the midst of them. Just as Jesus endured the cross for the Joy set before Him (Hebrews 12:2), we too can find Joy in our trials, knowing that they are temporary compared to the eternal Joy that awaits us.

As we navigate the complexities of life, let us embrace the profound truth that Joy is the serious business of Heaven. It is a gift of the Spirit, a transformative force that can elevate our perspectives and sustain us through all seasons. Through gospel contemplation, we can delve deeper into the richness of Joy within the scriptures, allowing it to shape our outlook and develop our lives with the divine Joy that transcends all understanding. May we seek, find, and share the Joy in Jesus.
You may wish to follow this simple gospel contemplation guide to introduce you to this practice, looking at the Joy in the Shepherds hearing the good news of Jesus’ birth.

Advent – Peace

Introduction:

As we continue our journey through Advent, let’s take a moment to reflect on Peace—both the Peace we seek within ourselves and the Peace that comes from outside ourselves in Jesus. Amongst the holiday frenzy, how can you find a moment of calm, a tranquil pause amid the Christmas chaos? How can we find Peace as we read in – John 14:27 (NRSV): “Peace I leave with you; the Peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid.” 

Discovering Peace through the Jesus Prayer:

In the second week of Advent, we delve deeper into the concept of Peace. Jesus’ words in John 14:27 resonate powerfully—His Peace is not like the fleeting Peace offered by the world; it is a lasting, transformative peace that anchors our souls.

Scripture:

“You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast because they trust in you.” – Isaiah 26:3 (NIV)

The Jesus Prayer: A Path to Inner Peace:

The repetition of the Jesus Prayer—“Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner”—is a practice that has ancient origins in the Orthodox church but is powerful for us today. By speaking these words, we acknowledge our need for God’s mercy and invite the Peace of Christ into our lives.

“Peace I give to you, my peace I leave with you.” – John 14:27 (NRSV)

In the rhythm of this prayer, we find a sacred space to centre ourselves, shifting our focus from the chaos around us to the serenity within us.

Words of Wisdom:

“God cannot give us happiness and Peace apart from Himself because it is not there. There is no such thing. – C.S. Lewis” As Lewis points out, Peace and Joy come from God. The Jesus Prayer becomes a crafting of Peace in our hearts, a masterpiece of divine connection.

Practical Tips for Peace:

  1. Breathe in Peace: Inhale Christ’s Peace, exhale the world’s worries. Take intentional deep breaths while reciting the Jesus Prayer.
  2. Create a Peaceful Space: Designate a quiet corner for prayer. Let it be a refuge to retreat, pause, and connect with God.
  3. Pray Continuously: In moments of stress or busyness, whisper the Jesus Prayer as a reminder of Christ’s abiding presence.

Conclusion: Let us actively pursue Christ’s Peace. Through the timeless practice of the Jesus Prayer, may our hearts radiate the Peace that can only come from Jesus. May this Advent season be filled with joy that surpasses all understanding. Stay tuned for more insights as we journey together towards the manager. “Peace I give to you; my peace I leave with you.” (John 14:27, NRSV) 

Go at the Jesus Prayer below and tell us how you got on! 

Advent – Hope

Seeking Hope in Challenging Circumstances

How do you discover hope amidst challenging circumstances? I often struggle to find hope when facing difficulties, or even looking at the state of the world. In such moments, I rely on faith, trusting that God is by my side. Hope is something deeper than just a wish or happy thoughts. Hope, as many have articulated, is a profound concept.

Wisdom from Philosophers and Authors

Aristotle eloquently described hope as a “waking dream.” In JRR Tolkien’s Fellowship of the Ring, there’s a reflection on hope and love persisting even in the darkest corners of the world: “The world is indeed full of peril, and in it, there are many dark places; but still there is much that is fair, and though in all lands love is now mingled with grief, it grows perhaps the greater.”

Illuminating Hope through Imperfections

Taking a more on-the-nose yet equally profound approach, Leonard Cohen expressed, “There is a crack in everything. That’s how the light gets in,” backing up that hope often emerges from the imperfections and challenges we face.

Hope in Lived Experiences

In my view, hope is not just a theoretical concept; it becomes meaningful through our lived experiences, especially when we find glimpses of light amidst darkness. Personally, I believe that this light is revealed by Jesus, who offers us genuine and vibrant hope for both the present and the future if we seek it.

Sharing Struggles and Seeking Hope Together

I wonder, do you struggle to see hope in your life? It’s okay to admit that finding hope can be challenging, especially in the face of adversity. Acknowledging this struggle is the first step toward understanding and embracing the complexities of hope. This is a place a think prayer can help with.

Advent Group Reflections

In our weekly advent group, we explore various prayers to center our hearts and minds on themes such as Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love. This practice helps us cultivate a deeper understanding of these concepts and integrate them into our lives. This week we looked at hope. I HOPE you find this a helpful practice. Try it once a day for a week and let us know how you got on with it.

Easyfundraising

We’re now registered with easyfundraising, which means you can help the Mynydd Bedwellte Ministry Area for FREE.

Over 7,000 brands will donate to us when you use or easyfundraising to shop with them – at no extra cost to yourself! All you need to do is sign up and remember to use easyfundraising whenever you shop online.

Many charities and people are doing this as a great way to raise funds for causes that need support.

It’s easy and completely FREE! These donations mount up, so please sign up to support us at:

https://www.easyfundraising.org.uk/causes/mynydd-bedwellte-ministry-area/?utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=pmc&utm_content=email-1

Coming and Becoming – Poem Joe Hasler

As we approach Advent and Christmas here is a poem from one of our ministers Joe Hasler. He has some wonderful poetry!

Coming and Becoming

Mum,

Where’re my socks?

Dad,

The tyre’s flat.

God

My life is in a mess!

I’m coming!

I’m coming!

God is always coming.

—000—

On page one.

The Spirits brooding

Over waters far from still,

Something comes

Out of nothing,

God is coming 

And brings a world.

There is a bag

Full of things

That will make 

a world.

It’s dropped.

Contents scattered.

And gently kneeling

Items placed

Creating order

Out of chaos

God is coming

Putting right 

Misplaced pieces of this world.

Making new –

God is coming.

Making right –

Coming too.

Coming and becoming, 

Making right and new.

God has always

From beginning

Been a coming

To the world.

Patriarchs,

Psalmist,

Prophets,

All shout

…..Or whisper,

‘He is coming

Coming in our world.’

—000—

Then a moment,

A Palestinian stable,

A baby there

From Mary born,

God made flesh,

A becoming,

A God incarnate child.

Another moment,

By Jordan River,

A man is there.

And Jesus with the Baptist

By the Spirit is encompassed.

God incarnate,

Shown in human flesh!

I’m coming!

I’m coming!

Gains a prefix.

The oft used words of Jesus,

‘Fear not’.

‘I’ve come

And still am coming

Becoming the Kingdom

I will live.

Fear not

I’m coming 

Is the story

Even in the pages 

Where death is sharp.

Even then

The Jesus leaving

Is a coming

Of new life.

—000—

‘Amen’.

Another oft used Jesus word

Is added

To the sentence.

‘Amen!’

Or ‘Yes!’

Or ‘And for me’,

Completes the message

That God brings.

‘I’m coming.

            Fear not.

Amen.’

Speaks all the words 

We need to hear

To make his coming

Our becoming

Eradicating fear.

 Joe Hasler Advent 2015

Odd Socks And The Song Of Mary

Introduction:

Anti-Bullying Week took centre stage, with our church community at St Davids Den in St Davids Rhymney reflecting on a unique and colourful initiative that echoes the importance of acceptance and understanding. Inspired by the creative Odd Socks Day, where individuals proudly wear mismatched socks, we delve into the symbolism behind this campaign and draw parallels to the timeless teachings found in the Magnificat—the song of Mary.

Odd Socks Day: A Celebration of Uniqueness

The vibrant Odd Socks Day is not just a fashion statement but a powerful symbol of embracing diversity. In our churches, we recognise that everyone is unique, each with a story and perspective to share. Schools are mainly encouraged to wear mismatched socks and celebrate the beauty that arises when we accept one another for who we are, quirks and all.

In the Eyes of Mary: The Magnificat’s Message

As we are approaching the Christmas season, we looked at St David’s Den not just as a moral message but as a biblical one. Our reflections turn to the Magnificat, the hymn of praise uttered by Mary upon learning of her divine pregnancy. These verses contain a profound message that resonates with the core values of Anti-Bullying Week. Mary’s words speak against bullies and promote justice, humility, and the rejection of oppression.

God Is Not for Bullies:

Our faith teaches us that God is not for bullies. In a world where the vulnerable are often targets, we can think about Ukraine, Israel and Palestine and also within our own country. We must stand firm in creating a sanctuary of love and acceptance. The Magnificat reminds us that our Creator advocates for justice and compassion, not cruelty or discrimination—the one who lifts the lowly and tears down the mighty. The Odd Socks initiative and reflections on the Magnificat empower us to be agents of change, fostering an environment where kindness prevails over cruelty. Bullying, in all its forms, starkly contrasts with the values we hold dear. 

Conclusion:

As Anti-Bullying Week passes and Christmas approaches, let the vibrant mismatched socks and the timeless words of Mary inspire us. Let’s unite as a church community in a world teeming with bullies, promoting acceptance, love, and understanding. God’s eyes see beyond our differences, and so should we. Wear your odd socks with pride; let them symbolise our commitment to creating a world where God’s love shines through the acceptance of one another. Together, we can be a desperately needed beacon of light for our world.

The Magnificat

Mary said, “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has looked with favor on the lowliness of his servant. Surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed; for the Mighty One has done great things for me, and holy is his name. His mercy is for those who fear him from generation to generation. He has shown strength with his arm; he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts. He has brought down the powerful from their thrones, and lifted up the lowly; he has filled the hungry with good things, and sent the rich away empty. He has helped his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy, according to the promise he made to our ancestors, to Abraham and to his descendants forever.”

Exit mobile version