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reflection articles
These REFLECTIONS are also posted on the @cochraneministerial FB page and here for your easy access. We would love to hear from you. Each article is signed so you can also contact directly the author if desired.
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REFLECTION
Christmas 2022
Late in time behold he came,
offspring of a virgins womb.
Veiled in flesh the god head see,
Hail the incarnate deity,
Pleased as one of us to dwell.
Jesus, our Emmanuel.
Christmas has come! For believers, the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem represents
the victory of light over darkness, joy over sadness, hope over despair, love
over hatred, peace over conflict, gratitude over misery, obedience over
disobedience, and order over chaos. The birth of Jesus Christ, Son of God, son
of Mary, brings profound goodness to our world-each year and all year. And it
happened because Mary and Joseph listened to God's direction in their lives,
and were open to God's prompting.
The scripture passages we read during Advent days of preparation tells us that
both Mary and Joseph were told of God's plan—Mary by an angel, Joseph in a
dream-and while they did not fully comprehend, they opened themselves
completely and co operated with God's will. That obedience changed their
lives—and ours—forever.
We do everything to proclaim the Christmas message well: christmas music,
Christmas decor, Christmas gifts, and Christmas food. It is all about love and
goodness—which is the heart of Christ's saving message to all of us.
May you, like Mary and joseph, listen for God's direction in your life and be
open to God's promptings so that you may experience the love of christ at
Christmas! And may you share that Christmas gift with others every day by
word and deed.
I wish you all a very blessed Christmas and a New Year filled with love, joy
and peace.
In the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Amen
Rev Edith Belair
Holy Trinity Anglican Church
Christmas 2022
Late in time behold he came,
offspring of a virgins womb.
Veiled in flesh the god head see,
Hail the incarnate deity,
Pleased as one of us to dwell.
Jesus, our Emmanuel.
Christmas has come! For believers, the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem represents
the victory of light over darkness, joy over sadness, hope over despair, love
over hatred, peace over conflict, gratitude over misery, obedience over
disobedience, and order over chaos. The birth of Jesus Christ, Son of God, son
of Mary, brings profound goodness to our world-each year and all year. And it
happened because Mary and Joseph listened to God's direction in their lives,
and were open to God's prompting.
The scripture passages we read during Advent days of preparation tells us that
both Mary and Joseph were told of God's plan—Mary by an angel, Joseph in a
dream-and while they did not fully comprehend, they opened themselves
completely and co operated with God's will. That obedience changed their
lives—and ours—forever.
We do everything to proclaim the Christmas message well: christmas music,
Christmas decor, Christmas gifts, and Christmas food. It is all about love and
goodness—which is the heart of Christ's saving message to all of us.
May you, like Mary and joseph, listen for God's direction in your life and be
open to God's promptings so that you may experience the love of christ at
Christmas! And may you share that Christmas gift with others every day by
word and deed.
I wish you all a very blessed Christmas and a New Year filled with love, joy
and peace.
In the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Amen
Rev Edith Belair
Holy Trinity Anglican Church
REFLECTION
November/December 2022
HOLY TRINITY ANGLICAN PARISH
While searching for an Advent study – this before knowing Holy Trinity was to have a new Incumbent [Canon Patricia Dorland] on November 1st – I came upon one called “Before Christmas”.
Since this is exactly what Advent is: the 4 weeks before the birth of the Christ child it seemed worth looking into; what could such a study show? How to buy gifts? Making a card list? Baking? Not so.
“Before Christmas” was an invitation to carefully consider the life of Jesus before He came to this sinful earth as a human baby.
In the late 1800’s, Emily Elizabeth Steele Elliot, daughter of a British Anglican clergyman, was a Sunday School teacher living in Victorian times. She wanted to explain to the poor and underprivileged children she taught, children who would not receive loads of gifts at Christmas, exactly what Christmas really meant, so she wrote and taught them a hymn. Here are the first few lines:
“Thou didst leave Thy throne and Thy kingly crown when thou camest to earth for me
But in Bethlehem’s home was there found no room for Thy glorious nativity.”
These old-fashioned words sound odd to our ears today but in that day, this was an amazing idea – the Christmas story didn’t begin in Nazareth. Nor did it begin in Bethlehem. This story began in eternity in God, the Father’s presence and shows us what Jesus left in order to come here.
Jesus left the honour and glory of God’s kingdom, His equality with God, not just to be born a human baby but to become a slave to human-kind and to give His life so that when we die, we may join Him in God’s kingdom.
Thanks be to God.
November/December 2022
HOLY TRINITY ANGLICAN PARISH
While searching for an Advent study – this before knowing Holy Trinity was to have a new Incumbent [Canon Patricia Dorland] on November 1st – I came upon one called “Before Christmas”.
Since this is exactly what Advent is: the 4 weeks before the birth of the Christ child it seemed worth looking into; what could such a study show? How to buy gifts? Making a card list? Baking? Not so.
“Before Christmas” was an invitation to carefully consider the life of Jesus before He came to this sinful earth as a human baby.
In the late 1800’s, Emily Elizabeth Steele Elliot, daughter of a British Anglican clergyman, was a Sunday School teacher living in Victorian times. She wanted to explain to the poor and underprivileged children she taught, children who would not receive loads of gifts at Christmas, exactly what Christmas really meant, so she wrote and taught them a hymn. Here are the first few lines:
“Thou didst leave Thy throne and Thy kingly crown when thou camest to earth for me
But in Bethlehem’s home was there found no room for Thy glorious nativity.”
These old-fashioned words sound odd to our ears today but in that day, this was an amazing idea – the Christmas story didn’t begin in Nazareth. Nor did it begin in Bethlehem. This story began in eternity in God, the Father’s presence and shows us what Jesus left in order to come here.
Jesus left the honour and glory of God’s kingdom, His equality with God, not just to be born a human baby but to become a slave to human-kind and to give His life so that when we die, we may join Him in God’s kingdom.
Thanks be to God.
Reflection for October
St. Paul’s United Church
You crown the year with your bounty, and your carts overflow with abundance. The grasslands of the wilderness overflow; the hills are clothed with gladness. (Psalm 65)
Hasn’t this been an outstanding fall so far? Fall means harvest and is there anything better than enjoying the fruits of the season? We don’t do a great deal of gardening but did grow carrots this year. While they did not grow to a significant size, there was indeed an abundance of orange nuggets of deliciousness. I am blessed to look out each day and see the wonderful golden hues of the tamarack trees. They burst with the colour of sunshine and brighten my days even when it is cloudy. I believe that the rich, vibrant colours of the fall are God’s way to prepare us for the long, dark and bleak days of winter. When I look out my windows this time of year, I see a world clothed in gladness.
Margaret Burkholder
St. Paul’s United Church
St. Paul’s United Church
You crown the year with your bounty, and your carts overflow with abundance. The grasslands of the wilderness overflow; the hills are clothed with gladness. (Psalm 65)
Hasn’t this been an outstanding fall so far? Fall means harvest and is there anything better than enjoying the fruits of the season? We don’t do a great deal of gardening but did grow carrots this year. While they did not grow to a significant size, there was indeed an abundance of orange nuggets of deliciousness. I am blessed to look out each day and see the wonderful golden hues of the tamarack trees. They burst with the colour of sunshine and brighten my days even when it is cloudy. I believe that the rich, vibrant colours of the fall are God’s way to prepare us for the long, dark and bleak days of winter. When I look out my windows this time of year, I see a world clothed in gladness.
Margaret Burkholder
St. Paul’s United Church
HOLY TRINITY ANGLICAN PARISH
Reflections for October
What better words may we carry in our hearts, pronounce with our mouths, write with a pen, than the words “ Thanks be to God” There is no other phrase that may be said so readily, that can be heard with greater joy, felt with more emotion or produced with greater effect- St. Austine, Letter7
With the changing season the beautifull fall colours and the harvests from the earth, this is a time to be truly thankful.
Submitted by: Bonnie Axcell
Reflections for October
What better words may we carry in our hearts, pronounce with our mouths, write with a pen, than the words “ Thanks be to God” There is no other phrase that may be said so readily, that can be heard with greater joy, felt with more emotion or produced with greater effect- St. Austine, Letter7
With the changing season the beautifull fall colours and the harvests from the earth, this is a time to be truly thankful.
Submitted by: Bonnie Axcell
HOLY TRINITY ANGLICAN PARISH
REFLECTIONS ARTICLE
SEPTEMBER 2022
1 John 3 Vs.18 “Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.”
At this time of year the signs of harvest are all around us ..Fall Fairs, Farmers’ Markets, beautiful
changing colours of the leaves and the crisp nights with magnificent Northern Lights. We have so much
to be grateful for that God has provided for us. But although prayers of thanks are wonderful, l I believe
God has much more planned for us.
There are so many that do not share in our abundance. Some in our community have already take
important steps forward to share God’s Love by sharing their gardens and harvest through street side
tables and roadside stands. Others drop off produce to neighbours or our local Food Bank to share with
families in need.
We don’t all have gardens but that shouldn’t stop us. Cochrane is known for its generosity; let’s be
creative …reaching out with actions to share God’s harvest of Love.
Submitted by Kim Skidmore
Holy Trinity Anglian Parish
REFLECTIONS ARTICLE
SEPTEMBER 2022
1 John 3 Vs.18 “Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.”
At this time of year the signs of harvest are all around us ..Fall Fairs, Farmers’ Markets, beautiful
changing colours of the leaves and the crisp nights with magnificent Northern Lights. We have so much
to be grateful for that God has provided for us. But although prayers of thanks are wonderful, l I believe
God has much more planned for us.
There are so many that do not share in our abundance. Some in our community have already take
important steps forward to share God’s Love by sharing their gardens and harvest through street side
tables and roadside stands. Others drop off produce to neighbours or our local Food Bank to share with
families in need.
We don’t all have gardens but that shouldn’t stop us. Cochrane is known for its generosity; let’s be
creative …reaching out with actions to share God’s harvest of Love.
Submitted by Kim Skidmore
Holy Trinity Anglian Parish
Reflection for August
St. Paul’s United Church
My sister (the extremely organized and tidy one of the Carson siblings) has a number
of photo albums all arranged in chronological order according to month and year;
within each album (again in chronological order) there are a few notes with names of
the people in the photos and location and year so in the odd chance it has been
mistakenly filed in the incorrect album, she can correct it before anyone finds out. Me
– I prefer the shoe box method – dump all the pictures into a shoe box, shake well so
each picture is a new surprise and when it gets so full you need ten elastics to hold it
shut then just start a new box. It is like finding a hidden treasure when you least
expect it. As I said – I use the shoe box method. Whichever method you prefer –
Sandra’s which is logical and extremely organized or mine which is always an
adventure in lunacy, you will still see (basically) the same story of our (very different)
lives.
That is what the writer of Hebrews is doing in Chapter 11. The author helps us look at
our family snapshots in the gallery of faith. Remembering those who crossed over the
Red Sea; remembering Rahab; who welcomed the scouts; remembering those who
marched around Jericho; remembering Sampson; Daniel, who shut the mouths of
lions; remembering those who won strength out of weakness like Mordecai and Esther
and remembering those who died for their faith.
Why should we look at this photo album of faith and faithfulness? Because in looking,
we learn who we are. We learn that we are not alone and that we are part of a family
with particular traits and characteristics.
As we look at this remarkable family found in the Book of Hebrews, we discover two
portraits of faith. One portrait is full of images of triumph - conquering enemies,
obtaining promises, shutting the mouths of lions, even gaining victory over death. But
the other portrait is filled with images of suffering - public mocking, imprisonment,
beating, stoning, homelessness, violence, and death. From the outside, the pictures
and images are radically different, impossible to reconcile. After all, our culture says
we are either successes or failures. But the writer of Hebrews mixes the categories
because our lot in life is not a measure of our faithfulness.
The intermingled categories are a word of encouragement for struggling Christians. If
we are struggling, and someone tells us that the true mark of faithfulness is suffering,
we might despair. Must our suffering continue forever? If we are struggling and
someone tells us that the true mark of faithfulness is triumph and victory, then is there
hope for us? But the mixing of suffering and triumph gives us a word of hope -
faithfulness shines both in suffering and in triumph, both in sorrow and in joy.
So we learn that faith endures. Faith trusts God's promises even when the present calls
those promises into question. In the face of suffering, faith holds on and holds out
because of the certainty of a future in which God has something better in store. Such
are the lessons from our family photo album. We remember our family. We are not
alone. We remember our family, but we also remember what we are called to do. We have a
journey to live. We are not mere tourists in this world, wandering from place to place,
taking pictures, visiting landmarks, writing postcards, and then cheerily returning to
the safety of home. We are runners in a journey – a journey of
keeping our faith. As sojourners, we must lay aside every hindrance for the purpose of
this life. We must put aside anything that will weigh us down. We summon our
dedication and focus on the prize at the end.
But what do we do if all that does not appear to be enough? What if, despite a cloud of
witnesses, despite that cheering section, despite our perseverance and sacrifice, we do
not know whether we can hold out to the end?
The writer of Hebrews has one final word of advice. There is one more photograph for
us to see, the final and most important one of all - "Let us run the race that is set
before us, looking to Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of our faith." The author of
Hebrews credits Jesus with blazing a trail through all human existence and tested in
every way like all of us yet finding joy at the end of the suffering of the cross. Here, at
the end of the finish line if you will, Jesus encourages his followers to follow in his
footsteps. So, Jesus not only calls us across the finish line but also fills in and fills out
what is lacking in our faithfulness. He takes our incomplete faith and makes it whole.
So, when our knees are weak and our hands drooping, when we feel worn out in the
journey of faith, wondering whether we can hold on and hold out, we remember Jesus
who has gone before us and who calls us home.
Thanks goes to:
B. Carson, Pastoral Supervisor
St. Paul’s United Church
St. Paul’s United Church
My sister (the extremely organized and tidy one of the Carson siblings) has a number
of photo albums all arranged in chronological order according to month and year;
within each album (again in chronological order) there are a few notes with names of
the people in the photos and location and year so in the odd chance it has been
mistakenly filed in the incorrect album, she can correct it before anyone finds out. Me
– I prefer the shoe box method – dump all the pictures into a shoe box, shake well so
each picture is a new surprise and when it gets so full you need ten elastics to hold it
shut then just start a new box. It is like finding a hidden treasure when you least
expect it. As I said – I use the shoe box method. Whichever method you prefer –
Sandra’s which is logical and extremely organized or mine which is always an
adventure in lunacy, you will still see (basically) the same story of our (very different)
lives.
That is what the writer of Hebrews is doing in Chapter 11. The author helps us look at
our family snapshots in the gallery of faith. Remembering those who crossed over the
Red Sea; remembering Rahab; who welcomed the scouts; remembering those who
marched around Jericho; remembering Sampson; Daniel, who shut the mouths of
lions; remembering those who won strength out of weakness like Mordecai and Esther
and remembering those who died for their faith.
Why should we look at this photo album of faith and faithfulness? Because in looking,
we learn who we are. We learn that we are not alone and that we are part of a family
with particular traits and characteristics.
As we look at this remarkable family found in the Book of Hebrews, we discover two
portraits of faith. One portrait is full of images of triumph - conquering enemies,
obtaining promises, shutting the mouths of lions, even gaining victory over death. But
the other portrait is filled with images of suffering - public mocking, imprisonment,
beating, stoning, homelessness, violence, and death. From the outside, the pictures
and images are radically different, impossible to reconcile. After all, our culture says
we are either successes or failures. But the writer of Hebrews mixes the categories
because our lot in life is not a measure of our faithfulness.
The intermingled categories are a word of encouragement for struggling Christians. If
we are struggling, and someone tells us that the true mark of faithfulness is suffering,
we might despair. Must our suffering continue forever? If we are struggling and
someone tells us that the true mark of faithfulness is triumph and victory, then is there
hope for us? But the mixing of suffering and triumph gives us a word of hope -
faithfulness shines both in suffering and in triumph, both in sorrow and in joy.
So we learn that faith endures. Faith trusts God's promises even when the present calls
those promises into question. In the face of suffering, faith holds on and holds out
because of the certainty of a future in which God has something better in store. Such
are the lessons from our family photo album. We remember our family. We are not
alone. We remember our family, but we also remember what we are called to do. We have a
journey to live. We are not mere tourists in this world, wandering from place to place,
taking pictures, visiting landmarks, writing postcards, and then cheerily returning to
the safety of home. We are runners in a journey – a journey of
keeping our faith. As sojourners, we must lay aside every hindrance for the purpose of
this life. We must put aside anything that will weigh us down. We summon our
dedication and focus on the prize at the end.
But what do we do if all that does not appear to be enough? What if, despite a cloud of
witnesses, despite that cheering section, despite our perseverance and sacrifice, we do
not know whether we can hold out to the end?
The writer of Hebrews has one final word of advice. There is one more photograph for
us to see, the final and most important one of all - "Let us run the race that is set
before us, looking to Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of our faith." The author of
Hebrews credits Jesus with blazing a trail through all human existence and tested in
every way like all of us yet finding joy at the end of the suffering of the cross. Here, at
the end of the finish line if you will, Jesus encourages his followers to follow in his
footsteps. So, Jesus not only calls us across the finish line but also fills in and fills out
what is lacking in our faithfulness. He takes our incomplete faith and makes it whole.
So, when our knees are weak and our hands drooping, when we feel worn out in the
journey of faith, wondering whether we can hold on and hold out, we remember Jesus
who has gone before us and who calls us home.
Thanks goes to:
B. Carson, Pastoral Supervisor
St. Paul’s United Church
REFLECTION for August 2022
HOLY TRINITY ANGLICAN PARISH [August 5th]
Recently my reading has brought forward the word ‘Faith’. We have faith in so many things: We plant seeds in our gardens and planters believing that with proper care and attention; water, fertilizer food, sun and shade the planted seeds will grow and in due course provide several of their kind, be they flowers or carrots. We have faith in this process. We raise our children in a similar way believing that with proper care and attention; water, food, fresh air, education and following our good example they will grow into strong, reliable, caring adults. We have faith in this process too. We have faith the sun will rise each day, that spring will follow winter, that hard work will result in the ability to care for those who depend on us for their well-being.
Why then, is it so difficult for us to have faith and believe that our short span on this earth is the prelude to a long and happy ever-after in God’s country, God’s kingdom? The Book of Revelation, found in the Bible – the Book of Books – describes God’s country, named as ‘the New Jerusalem’ clearly telling us what our life will be like in God’s kingdom.
[Rev.21.3,4] “See, the home of God is among mortals. He will dwell with them; they will be his peoples, and God himself will be with them and be their God; he will wipe every tear from their eyes. Death will be no more; mourning and crying and pain will be no more, for the first things have passed away.”
This peaceful place is available for all who put their lives in God’s hands and trust in him.
The kingdom of God, the New Jerusalem, is for all those who have faith in God.
HOLY TRINITY ANGLICAN PARISH [August 5th]
Recently my reading has brought forward the word ‘Faith’. We have faith in so many things: We plant seeds in our gardens and planters believing that with proper care and attention; water, fertilizer food, sun and shade the planted seeds will grow and in due course provide several of their kind, be they flowers or carrots. We have faith in this process. We raise our children in a similar way believing that with proper care and attention; water, food, fresh air, education and following our good example they will grow into strong, reliable, caring adults. We have faith in this process too. We have faith the sun will rise each day, that spring will follow winter, that hard work will result in the ability to care for those who depend on us for their well-being.
Why then, is it so difficult for us to have faith and believe that our short span on this earth is the prelude to a long and happy ever-after in God’s country, God’s kingdom? The Book of Revelation, found in the Bible – the Book of Books – describes God’s country, named as ‘the New Jerusalem’ clearly telling us what our life will be like in God’s kingdom.
[Rev.21.3,4] “See, the home of God is among mortals. He will dwell with them; they will be his peoples, and God himself will be with them and be their God; he will wipe every tear from their eyes. Death will be no more; mourning and crying and pain will be no more, for the first things have passed away.”
This peaceful place is available for all who put their lives in God’s hands and trust in him.
The kingdom of God, the New Jerusalem, is for all those who have faith in God.
REFLECTION for July 2022
United Church - Cochrane
This morning while enjoying my coffee, I happened on the “Come From Away” documentary. If you get the opportunity, watch this wonderful program that details how the community of Gander, Newfoundland welcomed, sheltered, fed and loved the almost 7000 travelers who were grounded in Canada as a result of the horrors of the events in the United States on September 11, 2001. I believe this is a modern day example of the story of the good Samaritan.
“. . . you shall love your neighbour as yourself. I am the LORD… When an alien resides with you in your land, you shall not oppress the alien. The alien who resides with you shall be to you as the citizen among you; you shall love the alien as yourself, for you were aliens in the land of Egypt: I am the Lord your God.” Bearing in mind when the text refers to “aliens”, it does not refer to little green men in flying saucers, but rather a person who is not of that area or land. (Leviticus 19: 33 – 34)
Notice the repeated refrain in Leviticus, repeated not only in these two verses, but over and over again in the giving of society’s laws - “I am the Lord your God.” God has created all people, and our concern for all people shatters the fences of our own tribes.
We are all “tribal” by instinct and by habit. We are most comfortable with and usually care most about those like us. But now we live side-by-side with people of many different tribes. I grew up in Cochrane where thankfully, despite the wishes of my “orange” grandfather, my parents promoted knowing the neighbours and insisting that all we met were treated respectfully and with kindness. My closest childhood neighbour was French and Catholic and if my grandfather would have had his way, I would have never visited her nor had her visit my home.
We are surrounded by people different from us who need our help. We can cite examples from the work of our own congregation, helping others in the community, as well as reaching out to the world through different denominational ministries.
The Christian faith, following Jesus, reaches out beyond our tribal walls. Our “neighbours” are those who need us. Thanks be to God. Amen.
M. Burkholder
St. Paul’s United Church
With support from Brynn Carson, Pastoral Charge Supervisor
United Church - Cochrane
This morning while enjoying my coffee, I happened on the “Come From Away” documentary. If you get the opportunity, watch this wonderful program that details how the community of Gander, Newfoundland welcomed, sheltered, fed and loved the almost 7000 travelers who were grounded in Canada as a result of the horrors of the events in the United States on September 11, 2001. I believe this is a modern day example of the story of the good Samaritan.
“. . . you shall love your neighbour as yourself. I am the LORD… When an alien resides with you in your land, you shall not oppress the alien. The alien who resides with you shall be to you as the citizen among you; you shall love the alien as yourself, for you were aliens in the land of Egypt: I am the Lord your God.” Bearing in mind when the text refers to “aliens”, it does not refer to little green men in flying saucers, but rather a person who is not of that area or land. (Leviticus 19: 33 – 34)
Notice the repeated refrain in Leviticus, repeated not only in these two verses, but over and over again in the giving of society’s laws - “I am the Lord your God.” God has created all people, and our concern for all people shatters the fences of our own tribes.
We are all “tribal” by instinct and by habit. We are most comfortable with and usually care most about those like us. But now we live side-by-side with people of many different tribes. I grew up in Cochrane where thankfully, despite the wishes of my “orange” grandfather, my parents promoted knowing the neighbours and insisting that all we met were treated respectfully and with kindness. My closest childhood neighbour was French and Catholic and if my grandfather would have had his way, I would have never visited her nor had her visit my home.
We are surrounded by people different from us who need our help. We can cite examples from the work of our own congregation, helping others in the community, as well as reaching out to the world through different denominational ministries.
The Christian faith, following Jesus, reaches out beyond our tribal walls. Our “neighbours” are those who need us. Thanks be to God. Amen.
M. Burkholder
St. Paul’s United Church
With support from Brynn Carson, Pastoral Charge Supervisor
Reflection for Canada Day
From Knox Christian Reformed Church
for July 2022
As Canadians, we often take for granted the wonderful country we live in. We live in peace, we are free to travel and roam within our country. We are free to move and live in any part of this great nation.
Canada has many amenities: straight, well-maintained highways, indoor shopping malls, playgrounds, comfort centres, fast food outlets, and churches with insulation and air conditioning.
God's is good to us. There's room for all here. We're friendly. We welcome those from other countries, and all religions are free to worship here. Being young at heart, Canadians have healthy minds and bodies. We're open-minded. We're known the world over as peacemakers. I suspect that we might, in fact, be just a little apathetic, taking our blessings for granted.
While living in such freedom, we need to stand on guard. We could lose our freedoms very easily. As patriots and as Christians, we must be good stewards of this part of the globe that we call home. This means taking care of everything from voting to littering. We need to be informed. We need to keep the Golden Rule, loving our neighbours as ourselves.
As Christians, this world is not our home. We belong to God's kingdom, and one day, we will live with Him there. We are different from worldly people. God has placed us here to be salt and light — not to be assimilated into the world, but to have an effect on it. We are His ambassadors.
We are to be lights in the darkness, so when we see the sky lit up by fireworks, let us remember who we are, who we belong to, and why we're here
-- John Hessels --
From Knox Christian Reformed Church
for July 2022
As Canadians, we often take for granted the wonderful country we live in. We live in peace, we are free to travel and roam within our country. We are free to move and live in any part of this great nation.
Canada has many amenities: straight, well-maintained highways, indoor shopping malls, playgrounds, comfort centres, fast food outlets, and churches with insulation and air conditioning.
God's is good to us. There's room for all here. We're friendly. We welcome those from other countries, and all religions are free to worship here. Being young at heart, Canadians have healthy minds and bodies. We're open-minded. We're known the world over as peacemakers. I suspect that we might, in fact, be just a little apathetic, taking our blessings for granted.
While living in such freedom, we need to stand on guard. We could lose our freedoms very easily. As patriots and as Christians, we must be good stewards of this part of the globe that we call home. This means taking care of everything from voting to littering. We need to be informed. We need to keep the Golden Rule, loving our neighbours as ourselves.
As Christians, this world is not our home. We belong to God's kingdom, and one day, we will live with Him there. We are different from worldly people. God has placed us here to be salt and light — not to be assimilated into the world, but to have an effect on it. We are His ambassadors.
We are to be lights in the darkness, so when we see the sky lit up by fireworks, let us remember who we are, who we belong to, and why we're here
-- John Hessels --
The Guardians of the Galaxy
A Reflection for June, 2022
This popular movie title introduced some heroes who, by virtue of fate, became guardians to the future of the galaxy in a fictional universe. They were guardians or keepers of life and good. I like the premise because there is a parallel in the Christian ‘verse’. We, the church of Jesus Christ, are also called as keepers or guardians of a ‘Galaxy’. We have been called and commissioned by the Lord to keep His flame – or truth; to guard its integrity. God gave us His scriptures to accurately know what that truth is. We must remember that we don’t own, we didn’t create that truth – it is God’s. Therefore we have only the responsibility to guard it, not to edit it! The ancient nation of Israel got in trouble because God visited the world to invite His special nation to the next level of relationship, expanding the revelation of His truth... basically letting them know that the flame did not belong to them, nor was it just for them, but for the world – for whosoever responds to the invitation with faith. But Israel refused, rejecting God’s plans for the flame. They failed in their role as guardians, and God opened the door anyways to the entire world. This story is told in parable by Jesus in the book of Matthew 22. So today, the Church is responsible for keeping the flame. The open door remains for the time, an invitation to all who will enter. The challenge is for each person to prepare for the day that Jesus will return to fulfill and finish the revelation. We don’t want to be one of those who are found presumptuously waiting with only our own righteousness, unprepared for the King of the Galaxy to take His place... In the mean time, let’s fill our role as guardians of the flame, until He returns to claim it.
Pastor Robert Cox
New Hope Community Church
A Reflection for June, 2022
This popular movie title introduced some heroes who, by virtue of fate, became guardians to the future of the galaxy in a fictional universe. They were guardians or keepers of life and good. I like the premise because there is a parallel in the Christian ‘verse’. We, the church of Jesus Christ, are also called as keepers or guardians of a ‘Galaxy’. We have been called and commissioned by the Lord to keep His flame – or truth; to guard its integrity. God gave us His scriptures to accurately know what that truth is. We must remember that we don’t own, we didn’t create that truth – it is God’s. Therefore we have only the responsibility to guard it, not to edit it! The ancient nation of Israel got in trouble because God visited the world to invite His special nation to the next level of relationship, expanding the revelation of His truth... basically letting them know that the flame did not belong to them, nor was it just for them, but for the world – for whosoever responds to the invitation with faith. But Israel refused, rejecting God’s plans for the flame. They failed in their role as guardians, and God opened the door anyways to the entire world. This story is told in parable by Jesus in the book of Matthew 22. So today, the Church is responsible for keeping the flame. The open door remains for the time, an invitation to all who will enter. The challenge is for each person to prepare for the day that Jesus will return to fulfill and finish the revelation. We don’t want to be one of those who are found presumptuously waiting with only our own righteousness, unprepared for the King of the Galaxy to take His place... In the mean time, let’s fill our role as guardians of the flame, until He returns to claim it.
Pastor Robert Cox
New Hope Community Church
REFLECTION - ST PAUL'S UNITED CHURCH
May 27, 2022
Addressing the climate crisis requires concerted coordinated action on several fronts. The For the Love of Creation faith-in-action campaign, combined with its faithful climate conversations and theological reflection, presents an incredible opportunity for us all to act together. Now’s the moment.
– Rev. Michael Blair, General Secretary
For the Love of Creation is a coalition of 35 Canadian churches and faith-based organizations, including The United Church of Canada, working together under a unified banner to educate, reflect, act, and advocate for climate justice.
Key elements:
• Faithful Climate Conversations – a series of guides to facilitate small group conversations on climate change
• Theological Reflection – a series of reflective questions to discuss with a group and contribute reflections to a common letter of the faithful
• Faith-in-Action Advocacy campaign – combines a personal pledge with a political ask to key cabinet ministers
• Take a Sacred Pause - includes a reflection from Gkisedtanamoogk, an Indigenous Knowledge Keeper, who invites us to consider both why and how we love creation, as well as a simple practice using the words Sense, Appreciate, Connect, Respect, Express, Delight (SACRED). This practice guides us in remembering or discovering how to be in relationship with creation—a relationship of love and respect.
Some ideas to incorporate these elements into Worship Life:
• Include scripture and prayers from Faithful Climate Conversations – Appendix C
• Commission community members to create and share an image which captures the three advocacy areas and share with full community at worship
• Invite the community of faith to offer up personal pledges for climate justice and write letters to cabinet ministers
• Invite volunteers to facilitate a faithful climate conversation, and commission them in your service
• Invite participants to a faithful climate conversation to then contribute to planning a worship service
• Invite ecumenical friends to hold a common service, as For The Love of Creation is an effort of many national churches
• Have an Earth Day service where you use and share the SACRED spiritual practice
The For the Love of Creation action campaign was born out of a realization that we can’t just get together and think about the Earth once a year on Earth Day. A sustained, soul-felt, energizing effort is needed. Earth Day can be a moment to renew and inspire an on-going commitment.
Stay current with additional resources and events at For the Love of Creation.
- Submitted by Marg Burkholder
May 27, 2022
Addressing the climate crisis requires concerted coordinated action on several fronts. The For the Love of Creation faith-in-action campaign, combined with its faithful climate conversations and theological reflection, presents an incredible opportunity for us all to act together. Now’s the moment.
– Rev. Michael Blair, General Secretary
For the Love of Creation is a coalition of 35 Canadian churches and faith-based organizations, including The United Church of Canada, working together under a unified banner to educate, reflect, act, and advocate for climate justice.
Key elements:
• Faithful Climate Conversations – a series of guides to facilitate small group conversations on climate change
• Theological Reflection – a series of reflective questions to discuss with a group and contribute reflections to a common letter of the faithful
• Faith-in-Action Advocacy campaign – combines a personal pledge with a political ask to key cabinet ministers
• Take a Sacred Pause - includes a reflection from Gkisedtanamoogk, an Indigenous Knowledge Keeper, who invites us to consider both why and how we love creation, as well as a simple practice using the words Sense, Appreciate, Connect, Respect, Express, Delight (SACRED). This practice guides us in remembering or discovering how to be in relationship with creation—a relationship of love and respect.
Some ideas to incorporate these elements into Worship Life:
• Include scripture and prayers from Faithful Climate Conversations – Appendix C
• Commission community members to create and share an image which captures the three advocacy areas and share with full community at worship
• Invite the community of faith to offer up personal pledges for climate justice and write letters to cabinet ministers
• Invite volunteers to facilitate a faithful climate conversation, and commission them in your service
• Invite participants to a faithful climate conversation to then contribute to planning a worship service
• Invite ecumenical friends to hold a common service, as For The Love of Creation is an effort of many national churches
• Have an Earth Day service where you use and share the SACRED spiritual practice
The For the Love of Creation action campaign was born out of a realization that we can’t just get together and think about the Earth once a year on Earth Day. A sustained, soul-felt, energizing effort is needed. Earth Day can be a moment to renew and inspire an on-going commitment.
Stay current with additional resources and events at For the Love of Creation.
- Submitted by Marg Burkholder
REFLECTION for May 22:
Knox Christian Reformed Church, Cochrane
Recently I came across this Franciscan Blessing that is a counterbalance to the sometimes cozy version of Christianity that we often hear. Being a Christian requires that we do not just accept the normalcy of sin in this world but that we do what we can to work toward justice, peace and harmony in our community.
Over the years, Christians in Canada have been at the forefront of initiating change to address the evils in our society, either at the personal or organizational level. This blessing is a challenge to us to continue the effort to fight injustice, war and discord in our community. We are called to be Christ’s ambassadors in our families and communities.
A FRANCISCAN BLESSING
May God bless us with discomfort
At easy answers, half-truths,
And superficial relationships
So that we may live
Deep within our hearts.
May God bless us with anger
At injustice, oppression,
And exploitation of people,
So that we may work for
Justice, freedom and peace.
May God bless us with tears
To shed for those who suffer from pain,
Injustice, starvation and war,
So that we may reach out our hands
To comfort them and
To turn their pain into joy.
And may God bless us
with enough foolishness
To believe we can
Make a difference in the world,
So that we can do
What others claim cannot be done.
- Submitted by John Hessels
Knox Christian Reformed Church, Cochrane
Recently I came across this Franciscan Blessing that is a counterbalance to the sometimes cozy version of Christianity that we often hear. Being a Christian requires that we do not just accept the normalcy of sin in this world but that we do what we can to work toward justice, peace and harmony in our community.
Over the years, Christians in Canada have been at the forefront of initiating change to address the evils in our society, either at the personal or organizational level. This blessing is a challenge to us to continue the effort to fight injustice, war and discord in our community. We are called to be Christ’s ambassadors in our families and communities.
A FRANCISCAN BLESSING
May God bless us with discomfort
At easy answers, half-truths,
And superficial relationships
So that we may live
Deep within our hearts.
May God bless us with anger
At injustice, oppression,
And exploitation of people,
So that we may work for
Justice, freedom and peace.
May God bless us with tears
To shed for those who suffer from pain,
Injustice, starvation and war,
So that we may reach out our hands
To comfort them and
To turn their pain into joy.
And may God bless us
with enough foolishness
To believe we can
Make a difference in the world,
So that we can do
What others claim cannot be done.
- Submitted by John Hessels
Holy Trinity Anglican Church
REFLECTION
May 21, 2022
My Little dog Bambi and I are early risers. When I open the door to let him out, the birds are singing - oh what a beautiful sound - and when I look out my kitchen window, the crabapple tree in the yard is beginning to bloom. Spring is here and these are only a couple of things God has created for us.
I LOVE the think of nature as an unlimited broadcasting station through which God speaks to us every hour, if we will only listen to it. [George Washington Carver]
Quote from Dorothy Smith
REFLECTION
May 21, 2022
My Little dog Bambi and I are early risers. When I open the door to let him out, the birds are singing - oh what a beautiful sound - and when I look out my kitchen window, the crabapple tree in the yard is beginning to bloom. Spring is here and these are only a couple of things God has created for us.
I LOVE the think of nature as an unlimited broadcasting station through which God speaks to us every hour, if we will only listen to it. [George Washington Carver]
Quote from Dorothy Smith
Holy Trinity Anglican Church
REFLECTION
April 24, 2022
Something to think about: — St. Teresa of Ávila (attributed)
Christ has no body but yours,
No hands, no feet on earth but yours,
Yours are the eyes with which He looks
Compassion on this world,
Yours are the feet with which He walks to do good,
Yours are the hands, with which He blesses all the world.
Yours are the hands, yours are the feet,
Yours are the eyes, you are His body.
Christ has no body now but yours,
No hands, no feet on earth but yours,
Yours are the eyes with which he looks
compassion on this world.
Christ has no body now on earth but yours.
Quoted by Holy Trinity [Anglican] Parish
REFLECTION
April 24, 2022
Something to think about: — St. Teresa of Ávila (attributed)
Christ has no body but yours,
No hands, no feet on earth but yours,
Yours are the eyes with which He looks
Compassion on this world,
Yours are the feet with which He walks to do good,
Yours are the hands, with which He blesses all the world.
Yours are the hands, yours are the feet,
Yours are the eyes, you are His body.
Christ has no body now but yours,
No hands, no feet on earth but yours,
Yours are the eyes with which he looks
compassion on this world.
Christ has no body now on earth but yours.
Quoted by Holy Trinity [Anglican] Parish
St. Paul’s United Church
REFLECTION
March 30, 2022
One day, two people from the same congregation were having coffee and talking about church
stuff: you know, the regular chitter chatter. Finally, one says to the other, “You know, I’ve gone
to worship for 30 years now and, in that time, I have heard something like 3,000 sermons. But
for the life of me, I can’t remember a single one of them. So, I think I’m wasting my time, and
the ministers are wasting theirs by their giving sermons at all.” Well, the other person thought
for a moment and then replied, “You know, I’ve been married for 30 years. In that time, my
wife has cooked some 32,000 meals. But, for the life of me, I cannot recall the entire menu for a
single one of those meals. But I do know this, they all nourished me and gave me the strength I
needed to do my work. If my wife had not given me these meals, I would be physically dead
today. Likewise, if I had not gone to worship for nourishment, I would be spiritually dead
today!”
Once again, we are able to meet together in our respective churches. Have you been back to
your church? These past two years certainly have given us so many challenges, not the least of
which has been nourishing our souls. Many of us took full advantage of the connections using
technology and others found new ways to fill in an hour or two on Sunday mornings. This is a reminder that church doors have re-opened, and those times of worship are ready to nourish our souls.
Margaret Burkholder
REFLECTION
March 30, 2022
One day, two people from the same congregation were having coffee and talking about church
stuff: you know, the regular chitter chatter. Finally, one says to the other, “You know, I’ve gone
to worship for 30 years now and, in that time, I have heard something like 3,000 sermons. But
for the life of me, I can’t remember a single one of them. So, I think I’m wasting my time, and
the ministers are wasting theirs by their giving sermons at all.” Well, the other person thought
for a moment and then replied, “You know, I’ve been married for 30 years. In that time, my
wife has cooked some 32,000 meals. But, for the life of me, I cannot recall the entire menu for a
single one of those meals. But I do know this, they all nourished me and gave me the strength I
needed to do my work. If my wife had not given me these meals, I would be physically dead
today. Likewise, if I had not gone to worship for nourishment, I would be spiritually dead
today!”
Once again, we are able to meet together in our respective churches. Have you been back to
your church? These past two years certainly have given us so many challenges, not the least of
which has been nourishing our souls. Many of us took full advantage of the connections using
technology and others found new ways to fill in an hour or two on Sunday mornings. This is a reminder that church doors have re-opened, and those times of worship are ready to nourish our souls.
Margaret Burkholder
Holy Trinity Parish (Anglican Church)
REFLECTION
March 19th, 2022
This week’s submission is a meditation shared from “The Monastic Way Ancient Readings for Contemporary Living: A book of daily readings” edited by Hannah Ward and Jennifer Wild.
“In the film Dead Poets Society, a student pretends to get a phone call during morning assembly. When his phone rings he answers it and tells the headmaster that it is God calling. I have spent the majority of my life waiting for that ring, putting my life on hold, sitting through sleepless nights waiting, as if for Godot, but I only get wrong numbers or solicitors. Each ring I anticipate a divine voice, hoping beyond hope that this time it is God, but then it is a lonely voice or a distraught student, and again I missed God, or did I? I wonder if maybe I have heard God, but just didn’t recognise the voice”
Benedict Auer
Order of St. Benedict
So during this season of Lent, I will try to really listen to what God is telling me. I hope it gives you the reassurance that it did me. God is always talking to us, all we have to do is take the time to listen.
Kim Skidmore
Holy Trinity Anglican
REFLECTION
March 19th, 2022
This week’s submission is a meditation shared from “The Monastic Way Ancient Readings for Contemporary Living: A book of daily readings” edited by Hannah Ward and Jennifer Wild.
“In the film Dead Poets Society, a student pretends to get a phone call during morning assembly. When his phone rings he answers it and tells the headmaster that it is God calling. I have spent the majority of my life waiting for that ring, putting my life on hold, sitting through sleepless nights waiting, as if for Godot, but I only get wrong numbers or solicitors. Each ring I anticipate a divine voice, hoping beyond hope that this time it is God, but then it is a lonely voice or a distraught student, and again I missed God, or did I? I wonder if maybe I have heard God, but just didn’t recognise the voice”
Benedict Auer
Order of St. Benedict
So during this season of Lent, I will try to really listen to what God is telling me. I hope it gives you the reassurance that it did me. God is always talking to us, all we have to do is take the time to listen.
Kim Skidmore
Holy Trinity Anglican
Holy Trinity Parish
Reflection January 2022
How many of us live today worrying about tomorrow?
How many of us place our full attention on the future rather than the present?
The word of God says: Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
Trust in God to help us through each day.
Matthew 6:34
Holy Trinity Parish - Bonnie Axcell
Knox Christian Reformed Church
Reflection Article February
Romans 13:10 - Love does no harm to a neighbor. Therefore, love is the fulfillment of the law.
When we tell others that we are Christians, many non-Christians assume that we must follow Biblical laws and rituals. What is often assumed is that Christians need to obey the Ten Commandments and follow religious rituals to be Christian.
This was certainly the case in the Old Testament - it seems that legalistic adherence to the laws and Jewish rituals were the hallmark of being a follower of God. The Jewish religious leadership had fine-tuned the laws of Moses to be able to identify what was permitted by God and what was not permitted.
When Jesus came to the earth, he did not abolish the laws as laid down by Moses, but He returned them to their original intent. The original intention of the law was to show the people of Israel how they were to fully honour God, not just “appear” to be honouring God.
Jesus clarified that the intention of the laws of Moses was to demonstrate what it looks like when we love both God and our neighbour. He further clarified that the love “motivation” would result in us doing “right” at all times. Jesus revealed that if we are motivated by love for God and our neighbour, we will not do any harm to them.
When we love someone, we do not need to be reminded not to steal from them, or lie to them, or cheat them. Paul says: “Love does no harm to a neighbour”. This is much more all-encompassing than following specific rules and laws, it calls us to live our lives as a demonstration of love for God and for our neighbours.
As Christians, we know that just following the legalistic basics of the law is not what Jesus had in mind. He has set the bar much higher, by asking us to fully love God and our neighbour. This higher expectation does not mean we do not need to follow the law; instead, it requires us to demonstrate our love by following the principals of the law – the law is a guide to how we should live in response to God’s love for us.
To love as Jesus did means that we incorporate God’s self-sacrificing love into our hearts. In Christ, God showed us not only perfect obedience to the law but perfect love.
John Hessels
Reflection Article February
Romans 13:10 - Love does no harm to a neighbor. Therefore, love is the fulfillment of the law.
When we tell others that we are Christians, many non-Christians assume that we must follow Biblical laws and rituals. What is often assumed is that Christians need to obey the Ten Commandments and follow religious rituals to be Christian.
This was certainly the case in the Old Testament - it seems that legalistic adherence to the laws and Jewish rituals were the hallmark of being a follower of God. The Jewish religious leadership had fine-tuned the laws of Moses to be able to identify what was permitted by God and what was not permitted.
When Jesus came to the earth, he did not abolish the laws as laid down by Moses, but He returned them to their original intent. The original intention of the law was to show the people of Israel how they were to fully honour God, not just “appear” to be honouring God.
Jesus clarified that the intention of the laws of Moses was to demonstrate what it looks like when we love both God and our neighbour. He further clarified that the love “motivation” would result in us doing “right” at all times. Jesus revealed that if we are motivated by love for God and our neighbour, we will not do any harm to them.
When we love someone, we do not need to be reminded not to steal from them, or lie to them, or cheat them. Paul says: “Love does no harm to a neighbour”. This is much more all-encompassing than following specific rules and laws, it calls us to live our lives as a demonstration of love for God and for our neighbours.
As Christians, we know that just following the legalistic basics of the law is not what Jesus had in mind. He has set the bar much higher, by asking us to fully love God and our neighbour. This higher expectation does not mean we do not need to follow the law; instead, it requires us to demonstrate our love by following the principals of the law – the law is a guide to how we should live in response to God’s love for us.
To love as Jesus did means that we incorporate God’s self-sacrificing love into our hearts. In Christ, God showed us not only perfect obedience to the law but perfect love.
John Hessels
St. Paul's United Church
Reflection January 2022
My mom was an incredible woman. Her example makes me aspire to be the best mother and grandmother that I can be. I believe her greatest gift to all her children was to share our gifts, however meagre we believe them to be, with others.
In one of readings this week, John 2 verses 1 to 11, we hear the story of the wedding at Cana. This is the story of the time when Jesus turned the water into wine. His first miracle.
However, this miracle may not have happened had it not been for his mother, Mary. When Mary realized that there was no more wine, she went to Jesus and told him, “They have no more wine.” Jesus told her that it was not his concern nor was it his ‘hour’. While I feel that Mary heard her son, she also knew that his time had come. She knows that her son is destined for more and that perhaps he needs a gentle push to head along his path. She turns to the servants and tells them to do what he tells them to do. Mother knows best and believes in her son.
Now Jesus could have turned away, ignoring his mother. After all, he was a guest at the wedding. It was not his responsibility to provide the drinks for the wedding. I like to believe that Jesus was ‘raised right’. He honoured his mother by listening to her and following her example to share the gifts we are given. And so, the servants brought him the water jars, filled them with water and when the master of the banquet was given the water, he declared it to be the choice wine.
Yes, He turned the water into wine but needed the wisdom of his mother to know it was indeed time for His gifts to be shared with others.
Margaret Burkholder - Chair
Reflection January 2022
My mom was an incredible woman. Her example makes me aspire to be the best mother and grandmother that I can be. I believe her greatest gift to all her children was to share our gifts, however meagre we believe them to be, with others.
In one of readings this week, John 2 verses 1 to 11, we hear the story of the wedding at Cana. This is the story of the time when Jesus turned the water into wine. His first miracle.
However, this miracle may not have happened had it not been for his mother, Mary. When Mary realized that there was no more wine, she went to Jesus and told him, “They have no more wine.” Jesus told her that it was not his concern nor was it his ‘hour’. While I feel that Mary heard her son, she also knew that his time had come. She knows that her son is destined for more and that perhaps he needs a gentle push to head along his path. She turns to the servants and tells them to do what he tells them to do. Mother knows best and believes in her son.
Now Jesus could have turned away, ignoring his mother. After all, he was a guest at the wedding. It was not his responsibility to provide the drinks for the wedding. I like to believe that Jesus was ‘raised right’. He honoured his mother by listening to her and following her example to share the gifts we are given. And so, the servants brought him the water jars, filled them with water and when the master of the banquet was given the water, he declared it to be the choice wine.
Yes, He turned the water into wine but needed the wisdom of his mother to know it was indeed time for His gifts to be shared with others.
Margaret Burkholder - Chair
New Hope Community Church
Reflection Article - December 19 ,2021
What Child Is This?
A good number of years ago now during the Advent season, as I was pondering the greatness of God and the mercy of God in sending His Son to us, I penned these words. What child is this, who so impacted history that the calendar of time itself is dissected by His birth?
To the atom He is fusion, for by Him all matter is held together. To horticulture He's the Rose of Sharon and the Lily of the valley. To the animal Kingdom He's the Lion of the tribe of Judah and the Lamb of God. To astronomy He's the Star of the morning and the Son of righteousness rising with healing in His wings. To the seeker He's the Way. To the philosopher the Truth. To the penitent the Life. He is Joshua's Captain. Moses’ smitten Rock. Isaiah's majestic Sovereign. Saul's blinding vision. John's Revelation.
What child is this? He's the poet's greatest Theme. The composers sweetest Music. The sinners dearest Friend. He's the Healer of broken hearts. The Mender of broken relationships. The Restorer of broken dreams. To the weary He is Wonderful. To the confused, Counselor. To the weak, Mighty God. To the orphan, Everlasting Father. To the desperate, Prince of Peace. In His life, He is humanity's only perfection. In His death, Humanity's only Savior. In His resurrection, humanity's only Hope.
What child is this? He is Jesus, God's love-gift to you. For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life!
David Shibley - Global Advance Founder
Submitted by: Pastor Robert Cox
Reflection Article - December 19 ,2021
What Child Is This?
A good number of years ago now during the Advent season, as I was pondering the greatness of God and the mercy of God in sending His Son to us, I penned these words. What child is this, who so impacted history that the calendar of time itself is dissected by His birth?
To the atom He is fusion, for by Him all matter is held together. To horticulture He's the Rose of Sharon and the Lily of the valley. To the animal Kingdom He's the Lion of the tribe of Judah and the Lamb of God. To astronomy He's the Star of the morning and the Son of righteousness rising with healing in His wings. To the seeker He's the Way. To the philosopher the Truth. To the penitent the Life. He is Joshua's Captain. Moses’ smitten Rock. Isaiah's majestic Sovereign. Saul's blinding vision. John's Revelation.
What child is this? He's the poet's greatest Theme. The composers sweetest Music. The sinners dearest Friend. He's the Healer of broken hearts. The Mender of broken relationships. The Restorer of broken dreams. To the weary He is Wonderful. To the confused, Counselor. To the weak, Mighty God. To the orphan, Everlasting Father. To the desperate, Prince of Peace. In His life, He is humanity's only perfection. In His death, Humanity's only Savior. In His resurrection, humanity's only Hope.
What child is this? He is Jesus, God's love-gift to you. For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life!
David Shibley - Global Advance Founder
Submitted by: Pastor Robert Cox
Holy Trinity Anglican Parish
Reflections Article for Cochrane Ministerial Facebook Page
December 3rd, 2021
Blessings..we have so many! Advent is a wonderful opportunity to not just reflect on our blessings but to share with those in our community. Sharing and giving is at the core of our Christian beliefs no matter what the denomination. In fact I believe it is at the core of humanity and it is demonstrated in so many ways in our community of Cochrane.
I initially was going to focus on our Blessing tree that we at Holy Trinity Anglican put up each year during the season of Advent. We put up a tree and parishioners are invited to purchase as many balls as they would like for a $5 donation. Each ball represents a blessing in their lives. All proceeds are then used to purchase goats through our Primates World Relief and Development outreach project.
But as I Iooked around Cochrane I found so many opportunities for everyone to find a way to share: Secret Santa at Villa Minto, Gift Tree at the Public Library, Operation Christmas Child Shoeboxes, Lions Club Telethon and or Cochrane Crunch Childrens’ winter clothing drive. I am sure there are many more. We are indeed a generous community.
But the best gift we can share is the good news..the gift we all freely receive from our Lord..his son Jesus Christ; who died to forgive our sins and give us Everlasting life. It can be as simple as inviting a friend or a neighbor to an Advent or Christmas church service. So let’s make our way through Advent sharing our blessings and with Joy, inviting our friends and family to share the “GOOD NEWS”!
Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift! 2 Corinthians 9:15
Submitted by: Kim Skidmore
Holy Trinity Anglican Parish
Cochrane, Ontario
Reflections Article for Cochrane Ministerial Facebook Page
December 3rd, 2021
Blessings..we have so many! Advent is a wonderful opportunity to not just reflect on our blessings but to share with those in our community. Sharing and giving is at the core of our Christian beliefs no matter what the denomination. In fact I believe it is at the core of humanity and it is demonstrated in so many ways in our community of Cochrane.
I initially was going to focus on our Blessing tree that we at Holy Trinity Anglican put up each year during the season of Advent. We put up a tree and parishioners are invited to purchase as many balls as they would like for a $5 donation. Each ball represents a blessing in their lives. All proceeds are then used to purchase goats through our Primates World Relief and Development outreach project.
But as I Iooked around Cochrane I found so many opportunities for everyone to find a way to share: Secret Santa at Villa Minto, Gift Tree at the Public Library, Operation Christmas Child Shoeboxes, Lions Club Telethon and or Cochrane Crunch Childrens’ winter clothing drive. I am sure there are many more. We are indeed a generous community.
But the best gift we can share is the good news..the gift we all freely receive from our Lord..his son Jesus Christ; who died to forgive our sins and give us Everlasting life. It can be as simple as inviting a friend or a neighbor to an Advent or Christmas church service. So let’s make our way through Advent sharing our blessings and with Joy, inviting our friends and family to share the “GOOD NEWS”!
Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift! 2 Corinthians 9:15
Submitted by: Kim Skidmore
Holy Trinity Anglican Parish
Cochrane, Ontario
Reflection: Nov 7, St Paul's United Church
Small things count, so Jesus said:
cups of water, crumbs of bread,
small things done because we're kind
count as big things in God's mind.
St. Paul’s United is in the midst of preparing for a quilt show. One of our lessons this week reminds that offering what we have is more than enough for Jesus. I am not sure how many have heard of the Quilts for Survivors non profit group. Organized by Vanessa Genier of Timmins, this group has been making and donating quilts to give them free of charge to Residential School survivors. The initiative is a response to the confirmation that many children lie in unmarked graves across our country and a sincere wish to provide a measure of comfort to those who survived. Quilts and donations are being created by hundreds of hands from around the world. Vanessa's wish to create and distribute eighteen quilts has grown to a gifting of more than 450 quilts and that number continues in an upward trend.
The tradition of quilt making is rooted in a wish to provide warmth and use/reuse every piece and scrap of material. Some may say that there really is no need to make quilts in an age where all we need to do is click a button to buy a blanket to provide warmth. As a quilter, I spend countless hours piecing and stitching my scraps together - while I do buy new materials, my preference is using the pieces I create from old clothing. As the quilter, even I am surprised at the beauty that appears when the scraps are stitched together. Each time Vanessa posts a photo of a survivor wrapped in their quilt, I see how small things count. I know that some measure of comfort has been extended and accepted. Quilts not only warm the body, our souls are warmed too and even though I will probably never meet the recipient of my quilts, we have been connected.
Small things count, so Jesus said:
cups of water, crumbs of bread,
small things done because we're kind
count as big things in God's mind.
Margaret Burkholder - United Church
Small things count, so Jesus said:
cups of water, crumbs of bread,
small things done because we're kind
count as big things in God's mind.
St. Paul’s United is in the midst of preparing for a quilt show. One of our lessons this week reminds that offering what we have is more than enough for Jesus. I am not sure how many have heard of the Quilts for Survivors non profit group. Organized by Vanessa Genier of Timmins, this group has been making and donating quilts to give them free of charge to Residential School survivors. The initiative is a response to the confirmation that many children lie in unmarked graves across our country and a sincere wish to provide a measure of comfort to those who survived. Quilts and donations are being created by hundreds of hands from around the world. Vanessa's wish to create and distribute eighteen quilts has grown to a gifting of more than 450 quilts and that number continues in an upward trend.
The tradition of quilt making is rooted in a wish to provide warmth and use/reuse every piece and scrap of material. Some may say that there really is no need to make quilts in an age where all we need to do is click a button to buy a blanket to provide warmth. As a quilter, I spend countless hours piecing and stitching my scraps together - while I do buy new materials, my preference is using the pieces I create from old clothing. As the quilter, even I am surprised at the beauty that appears when the scraps are stitched together. Each time Vanessa posts a photo of a survivor wrapped in their quilt, I see how small things count. I know that some measure of comfort has been extended and accepted. Quilts not only warm the body, our souls are warmed too and even though I will probably never meet the recipient of my quilts, we have been connected.
Small things count, so Jesus said:
cups of water, crumbs of bread,
small things done because we're kind
count as big things in God's mind.
Margaret Burkholder - United Church
REFLECTION: Oct 24, Sabbath Rest
Knox Christian Reformed Church
We live in a very busy culture, we constantly run out of time, we constantly try to fit more activities into our already busy schedule. In the past, Sunday was a day of rest, largely legislated by various levels of government, based on our Judeo Christian heritage. However in the past decade or two we have lost this common pause day, as we try to do more things with our time. Yet we should remember that God’s creation order gave us a pattern for rest - he set aside one day a week as Sabbath.
At the heart of Sabbath is the word rest. The Sabbath is intended for people, that they may learn to rest. The Sabbath is God's stress management program! It is how to prevent burnout—how to recover from too much pressure and catch up with yourself. It is how to gather yourself together and become able to handle the work you must do.
There are two reasons given in the Scripture for the Sabbath. The first one is found in Exodus 20:11. There we are told that because God finished creation in six days and then rested on the seventh day, He asked His people to rest after six days of labor. Why did God rest? He accomplished His objective. People too must recognize a limit to their work. There is a need to stop, to allow the body, mind, and spirit to recognize their limitations.
The second reason the Sabbath was given is often ignored. God said to Israel, Remember that you were slaves in Egypt and that the LORD your God brought you out of there with a mighty hand and an outstretched arm. Therefore the LORD your God has commanded you to observe the Sabbath day (Deuteronomy 5:15). They were to rest in order to reflect on God's ability to work beyond the labours they had already completed.
So there are two aspects of the Sabbath—creation and redemption. There is a rest of cessation; a ceasing from our own works. But then there is the rest of rejoicing in the mighty delivering power of God.
Knox Christian Reformed Church
We live in a very busy culture, we constantly run out of time, we constantly try to fit more activities into our already busy schedule. In the past, Sunday was a day of rest, largely legislated by various levels of government, based on our Judeo Christian heritage. However in the past decade or two we have lost this common pause day, as we try to do more things with our time. Yet we should remember that God’s creation order gave us a pattern for rest - he set aside one day a week as Sabbath.
At the heart of Sabbath is the word rest. The Sabbath is intended for people, that they may learn to rest. The Sabbath is God's stress management program! It is how to prevent burnout—how to recover from too much pressure and catch up with yourself. It is how to gather yourself together and become able to handle the work you must do.
There are two reasons given in the Scripture for the Sabbath. The first one is found in Exodus 20:11. There we are told that because God finished creation in six days and then rested on the seventh day, He asked His people to rest after six days of labor. Why did God rest? He accomplished His objective. People too must recognize a limit to their work. There is a need to stop, to allow the body, mind, and spirit to recognize their limitations.
The second reason the Sabbath was given is often ignored. God said to Israel, Remember that you were slaves in Egypt and that the LORD your God brought you out of there with a mighty hand and an outstretched arm. Therefore the LORD your God has commanded you to observe the Sabbath day (Deuteronomy 5:15). They were to rest in order to reflect on God's ability to work beyond the labours they had already completed.
So there are two aspects of the Sabbath—creation and redemption. There is a rest of cessation; a ceasing from our own works. But then there is the rest of rejoicing in the mighty delivering power of God.
REFLECTION for October
When we listen to the news today it is full of bad news- volcano, hurricanes, flooding, fires, covid 19 and the list goes on. At times it is very difficult to keep your spirits up. But we have to look at the wonderful things that God gives us. The beautiful summer weather we’ve had, the color of our trees as we move into autumn, of our abundant crops from the apple trees and gardens, the vaccine we are able to receive to fight against the corona virus and most of all that the children will soon be able to be vaccinated and our right to be able to worship God freely in Canada.
Oh God who makes things new, speak to us as a whole people today. May your truth touch not just our intellect, but also our deeper yearning of heart and soul. We bring with us our daily concern as well as our more eternal questions. May your new creation in us shed light upon our everyday walk.
[from Prayers of self reflections]
Submitted by Bonnie Axcell - Trinity Anglican Church
When we listen to the news today it is full of bad news- volcano, hurricanes, flooding, fires, covid 19 and the list goes on. At times it is very difficult to keep your spirits up. But we have to look at the wonderful things that God gives us. The beautiful summer weather we’ve had, the color of our trees as we move into autumn, of our abundant crops from the apple trees and gardens, the vaccine we are able to receive to fight against the corona virus and most of all that the children will soon be able to be vaccinated and our right to be able to worship God freely in Canada.
Oh God who makes things new, speak to us as a whole people today. May your truth touch not just our intellect, but also our deeper yearning of heart and soul. We bring with us our daily concern as well as our more eternal questions. May your new creation in us shed light upon our everyday walk.
[from Prayers of self reflections]
Submitted by Bonnie Axcell - Trinity Anglican Church
Reflection: QUOTATIONS TO HELP YOU THROUGH THE DAY
August 16, 2021
From Winnie the Pooh by A.A. Milne. "Today was a Difficult Day," said Pooh.
There was a pause. "Do you want to talk about it?" asked Piglet.
From ‘Call the Midwife’ “What good would this do for others?”
From Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White “You have been my friend and that in itself is a tremendous thing.”
From ‘Dr. Blake Mysteries “Don’t give up on God. He hasn’t given up on you.”
From “The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe” by C.S. Lewis “Someday you will be old enough to start reading fairy tales again”
From the Bible: Corinthians 13.13 “Three things will last forever—faith, hope, and love—and the greatest of these is love.”
Holy Trinity Anglican Parish
Reflection: A Better Future
July 16, 2021
At this time when the media would like nothing better than to highlight and sensationalize all of the errors in our past, natural disasters and negativity in our world; I would like to suggest that we take the time to consider our strengths, accomplishments and capacity for positive change. This has been highlighted for me as I became a new grandmother of two beautiful baby girls 5 weeks ago (not twins..but born three days apart). I have spent many hours considering how we can move forward with God’s strength and support striving for a future society where they will thrive as individuals yet become instrumental in the collective good of the creation. I pray that my grandchildren grow up to be kind-hearted people. I pray that they will be compassionate to one another, forgiving each other just as Jesus has forgiven all of us. I pray they will develop a caring heart with a desire to serve others. I pray they will learn from our past Canadian history (both negative and positive) and move forward with a renewed purpose, striving for equity for all. I will endeavour to help them to enjoy God’s creation, taking the time to watch butterflies and notice the beautiful clouds in the sky. But prayers need action as well… I have faith that our Christian communities can take the lead in this daunting but joyous journey that God has laid before us.
Kim Skidmore
Holy Trinity Anglican Parish
Cochrane, Ontario
July 16, 2021
At this time when the media would like nothing better than to highlight and sensationalize all of the errors in our past, natural disasters and negativity in our world; I would like to suggest that we take the time to consider our strengths, accomplishments and capacity for positive change. This has been highlighted for me as I became a new grandmother of two beautiful baby girls 5 weeks ago (not twins..but born three days apart). I have spent many hours considering how we can move forward with God’s strength and support striving for a future society where they will thrive as individuals yet become instrumental in the collective good of the creation. I pray that my grandchildren grow up to be kind-hearted people. I pray that they will be compassionate to one another, forgiving each other just as Jesus has forgiven all of us. I pray they will develop a caring heart with a desire to serve others. I pray they will learn from our past Canadian history (both negative and positive) and move forward with a renewed purpose, striving for equity for all. I will endeavour to help them to enjoy God’s creation, taking the time to watch butterflies and notice the beautiful clouds in the sky. But prayers need action as well… I have faith that our Christian communities can take the lead in this daunting but joyous journey that God has laid before us.
Kim Skidmore
Holy Trinity Anglican Parish
Cochrane, Ontario
Reflection: Self-Images
June 20, 2021
When you look in a mirror or take a ‘selfie’, what do you see?
Over the past few years, I have undergone a physical transformation. As a result, I often look into a
mirror or at a photo and I am surprised by the person reflected in that image. First, I can see my family
traits. I now believe my brothers who often told me as my transformation progressed, that I looked like
my mother. I see that now. Next, I see my sisters – we are often mistaken for one another. Then, I see
my father’s eyes – hazel. Finally, I see the signs of aging. Thankfully, I am blessed with the great and
wonderful gift of growing older.
Quite often I hear people say, “No photos, I always take a bad picture.” Please stop saying that – your
family will hold those images close at some point in the future. The ones who are taking the photos love
you as you are not as you wish you could be. The images of me from before are me – at a different time
in my life but they reflect the truest parts of myself as I continue my life journey.
I know that every image of me, past and present, reflects the me that God knows and loves. Warts and
all. I like to imagine that God sees only the best of me – loving sister, wife, parent, grandparent. Kind
and caring teacher. A warm-hearted friend with a ready ear for listening. However, I know that He also
sees the mean spirited me, the person who is so tired of lockdowns, the tired, grumpy me who needs a
break from the sadness of the world in a pandemic.
The good news is that God accepts us all as we are. His love is patient as we work on the less positive
aspects of our self-images. He rejoices in each of our steps towards showing our authentic selves. And
when we accept our authentic selves, limitations, and all, we become open to the great power that lies
within each of us, a power that enable great things. God is at work within us. Amen.
Margaret Burkholder
Chairperson, St. Paul’s United Church
June 20, 2021
When you look in a mirror or take a ‘selfie’, what do you see?
Over the past few years, I have undergone a physical transformation. As a result, I often look into a
mirror or at a photo and I am surprised by the person reflected in that image. First, I can see my family
traits. I now believe my brothers who often told me as my transformation progressed, that I looked like
my mother. I see that now. Next, I see my sisters – we are often mistaken for one another. Then, I see
my father’s eyes – hazel. Finally, I see the signs of aging. Thankfully, I am blessed with the great and
wonderful gift of growing older.
Quite often I hear people say, “No photos, I always take a bad picture.” Please stop saying that – your
family will hold those images close at some point in the future. The ones who are taking the photos love
you as you are not as you wish you could be. The images of me from before are me – at a different time
in my life but they reflect the truest parts of myself as I continue my life journey.
I know that every image of me, past and present, reflects the me that God knows and loves. Warts and
all. I like to imagine that God sees only the best of me – loving sister, wife, parent, grandparent. Kind
and caring teacher. A warm-hearted friend with a ready ear for listening. However, I know that He also
sees the mean spirited me, the person who is so tired of lockdowns, the tired, grumpy me who needs a
break from the sadness of the world in a pandemic.
The good news is that God accepts us all as we are. His love is patient as we work on the less positive
aspects of our self-images. He rejoices in each of our steps towards showing our authentic selves. And
when we accept our authentic selves, limitations, and all, we become open to the great power that lies
within each of us, a power that enable great things. God is at work within us. Amen.
Margaret Burkholder
Chairperson, St. Paul’s United Church
Reflection: Grace to Help
June 6, 2021
Adversity is a fact of life in this fallen world (Romans 8:22-23). Seasons of trial can drag on for years. Consider the perennial anguish Hannah suffered; “And it happened year after year, as often as she went up to the house of the Lord, that she would provoke her; so she wept and would not eat” (1 Samuel 1:7). Ten different times in the Psalms we encounter someone pushed to the breaking point crying out, “How long Lord?” (e.g., Psalm 13:1). Each time, after crying to the Lord for deliverance, the Psalmist quietly resolves to persevere in faith, trusting the Lord. At the end of her rope, Hannah did likewise; “she, greatly distressed, prayed to the Lord and wept bitterly … so the woman went on her way and ate, and her face was no longer sad” (1 Samuel 1:10-18).
Jesus said, “in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world” (John 16:33). He invites; “Come to Me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls” (Matthew 11:28-29). In Jesus “we do not have a high priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but One who has been tempted in all things just as we are, yet without sin … For since He Himself was tempted in that which He has suffered, He is able to come to the aid of those who are tempted … Therefore let’s approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help at the time of our need.” (Hebrews 4:15, 2:18, 4:16).
Clint Sheehan
Knox Christian Reformed Church
June 6, 2021
Adversity is a fact of life in this fallen world (Romans 8:22-23). Seasons of trial can drag on for years. Consider the perennial anguish Hannah suffered; “And it happened year after year, as often as she went up to the house of the Lord, that she would provoke her; so she wept and would not eat” (1 Samuel 1:7). Ten different times in the Psalms we encounter someone pushed to the breaking point crying out, “How long Lord?” (e.g., Psalm 13:1). Each time, after crying to the Lord for deliverance, the Psalmist quietly resolves to persevere in faith, trusting the Lord. At the end of her rope, Hannah did likewise; “she, greatly distressed, prayed to the Lord and wept bitterly … so the woman went on her way and ate, and her face was no longer sad” (1 Samuel 1:10-18).
Jesus said, “in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world” (John 16:33). He invites; “Come to Me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls” (Matthew 11:28-29). In Jesus “we do not have a high priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but One who has been tempted in all things just as we are, yet without sin … For since He Himself was tempted in that which He has suffered, He is able to come to the aid of those who are tempted … Therefore let’s approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help at the time of our need.” (Hebrews 4:15, 2:18, 4:16).
Clint Sheehan
Knox Christian Reformed Church
Reflection: Doing What You Can
May 25, 2021
One thing I have seen, even got caught up in, as we navigate the rocks of our present challenge. Most people are holding things in, trying to get along at peace. But are under pressure and waiting for a safe conversation where the concerns and frustrations can pour out. I really do get it, but was reminded recently again about the shortness of life and the blessings that we have, even now. If you are there too, let this be a gentle reminder to appreciate and use the things you DO have opportunity to do rather than wasting so much of your time and emotional energy upset about what you can’t do right now, and missing all the opportunities and blessings available.
I know there are things we so much want to do. Grandmas who have not been able to visit a newborn grandchild, families that could not gather for strength and comfort at the death of a loved one, missed opportunities and joys of all kinds. We are all there! We hate that part! But from here we can either cross our arms and sit down (metaphorically) in hurting frustration, or we can look around hard – even pray – to see the things we CAN do that will make a difference in someone’s day, and do that! It is amazing how the rebound effect of that will come back to you multiplied! The bible says, “cast your bread upon the waters, for after many days you will find it again. Divide YOUR portion among seven, or even eight, for you do not know what disaster may befall the land”. For me this means that we should share what we can, lift someone’s load where we can, respond with grace and love even when it is hard, because it will come back upon you – and that, from multiple sources – when you need it.
Together into the breach!!
Pastor Robert Cox
New Hope Community Church
May 25, 2021
One thing I have seen, even got caught up in, as we navigate the rocks of our present challenge. Most people are holding things in, trying to get along at peace. But are under pressure and waiting for a safe conversation where the concerns and frustrations can pour out. I really do get it, but was reminded recently again about the shortness of life and the blessings that we have, even now. If you are there too, let this be a gentle reminder to appreciate and use the things you DO have opportunity to do rather than wasting so much of your time and emotional energy upset about what you can’t do right now, and missing all the opportunities and blessings available.
I know there are things we so much want to do. Grandmas who have not been able to visit a newborn grandchild, families that could not gather for strength and comfort at the death of a loved one, missed opportunities and joys of all kinds. We are all there! We hate that part! But from here we can either cross our arms and sit down (metaphorically) in hurting frustration, or we can look around hard – even pray – to see the things we CAN do that will make a difference in someone’s day, and do that! It is amazing how the rebound effect of that will come back to you multiplied! The bible says, “cast your bread upon the waters, for after many days you will find it again. Divide YOUR portion among seven, or even eight, for you do not know what disaster may befall the land”. For me this means that we should share what we can, lift someone’s load where we can, respond with grace and love even when it is hard, because it will come back upon you – and that, from multiple sources – when you need it.
Together into the breach!!
Pastor Robert Cox
New Hope Community Church
May 17 2021
“What a Friend we have in Jesus.”
As one for whom singing has been a joy from a very early age, most mornings I wake with either the tune or the words of a hymn in my head. These days of quiet and solitude allow time to think about the relevance of the hymn’s meaning and I often realize that I have been given the answer to one of my concerns.
Today as I write, the words and tune of “What a friend we have in Jesus” resonate.
This well-known hymn was written by the Irish-born Canadian, Joseph Scriven. He was a man who suffered from depression much of his life yet this comforting hymn can provide us all with positive hope if we have faith to believe.
This hymn asks: “Do we have trials and temptations?” “is there trouble anywhere?” Our answer is Yes, these are worrying times. The hymn tells us: “never be discouraged, take it to the Lord in prayer.” The Lord is “a friend so faithful who will all our sorrows share. Jesus knows our every weakness; take it to the Lord in prayer. Jesus’ strength will shield our weakness, and we’ll find new courage there.”
Holy Trinity [Anglican] Parish
“What a Friend we have in Jesus.”
As one for whom singing has been a joy from a very early age, most mornings I wake with either the tune or the words of a hymn in my head. These days of quiet and solitude allow time to think about the relevance of the hymn’s meaning and I often realize that I have been given the answer to one of my concerns.
Today as I write, the words and tune of “What a friend we have in Jesus” resonate.
This well-known hymn was written by the Irish-born Canadian, Joseph Scriven. He was a man who suffered from depression much of his life yet this comforting hymn can provide us all with positive hope if we have faith to believe.
This hymn asks: “Do we have trials and temptations?” “is there trouble anywhere?” Our answer is Yes, these are worrying times. The hymn tells us: “never be discouraged, take it to the Lord in prayer.” The Lord is “a friend so faithful who will all our sorrows share. Jesus knows our every weakness; take it to the Lord in prayer. Jesus’ strength will shield our weakness, and we’ll find new courage there.”
Holy Trinity [Anglican] Parish
April 30 2021
No Turning Back
As the pandemic drags on it’s increasingly common to hear people say “I just want to go back to normal.” Although understandable, as Christians, we should remember the Lord never leads us back but always forward. The journey often requires trudging through the wilderness, and looking back never worked out for anyone in the Bible. Lot’s wife looked back and became a pillar of salt (Genesis 19:26). Jesus implored “remember Lot’s wife” (Luke 17:32). Jesus further warned, “No one, after putting his hand to the plow and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God” (Luke 9:62). During the Exodus as the journey dragged on the people grumbled and looked back to Egypt; “We remember the fish which we used to eat for free in Egypt, the cucumbers, the melons, the leeks, the onions, and the garlic” (Numbers 11:5).
Things weren’t better back in Egypt but when the going got tough the human instinct to return to the familiar kicked in. The Bible warns us to not to repeat this mistake (1 Corinthians 10:1-13). We are exhorted to “walk by faith not by sight” (2 Corinthians 5:7). As Isaiah said, “Behold, the Lord’s hand is not so short that it cannot save; nor is His ear so dull that it cannot hear” (Isaiah 59:1). Jesus encouraged us saying, “In Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world” (John 16:33). In the face of deep adversity Paul proclaimed “one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:13-14). We can’t go back, but forward is better anyway.
Clint Sheehan
Knox Christian Reformed Church
No Turning Back
As the pandemic drags on it’s increasingly common to hear people say “I just want to go back to normal.” Although understandable, as Christians, we should remember the Lord never leads us back but always forward. The journey often requires trudging through the wilderness, and looking back never worked out for anyone in the Bible. Lot’s wife looked back and became a pillar of salt (Genesis 19:26). Jesus implored “remember Lot’s wife” (Luke 17:32). Jesus further warned, “No one, after putting his hand to the plow and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God” (Luke 9:62). During the Exodus as the journey dragged on the people grumbled and looked back to Egypt; “We remember the fish which we used to eat for free in Egypt, the cucumbers, the melons, the leeks, the onions, and the garlic” (Numbers 11:5).
Things weren’t better back in Egypt but when the going got tough the human instinct to return to the familiar kicked in. The Bible warns us to not to repeat this mistake (1 Corinthians 10:1-13). We are exhorted to “walk by faith not by sight” (2 Corinthians 5:7). As Isaiah said, “Behold, the Lord’s hand is not so short that it cannot save; nor is His ear so dull that it cannot hear” (Isaiah 59:1). Jesus encouraged us saying, “In Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world” (John 16:33). In the face of deep adversity Paul proclaimed “one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:13-14). We can’t go back, but forward is better anyway.
Clint Sheehan
Knox Christian Reformed Church
April 15 2021
In HIS Image
In the ancient cultures of Egypt and Mesopotamia, the designation of being “in the image of God” was reserved exclusively for prominent people: kings, important officers, and royal rulers. These people considered their rulers to be gods as week. The Genesis account tells an entirely different story. God made no distinctions as to who was created in His image. God did not make some people more special or unique than the others – He did not separate them by hierarchy and power. Every human being regardless of sex, regardless of position, bears the image of God. Since God is the KING of kings, that makes each one of us special. It does not matter if you have been given a status in society or receive any special gifts at birth. It does not matter whether you are rich or poor, well-educated, or not. When God makes you His very own then you become His daughter, His son! You take on royalty!
Do you see worth in your children? God does. Do you think you could love your children as much as God loves you? Nope. Not unless you are willing to give your life for them despite their behaviour, their own desires, their willfulness. Zephaniah 3:17 says, “The Lord your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in his love he will no longer rebuke you but will rejoice over you with singing” Imagine God loving us so much He sings over you as He rejoices.
“Can a woman forget her nursing child
And have no compassion on the son of her womb?
Even these may forget, but I will not forget you.
'Behold, I have inscribed you on the palms of
My hands' " (Isaiah 49:15, 16).
Take a moment to thank your Creator. Thank Him for deciding to make you in His image. Thank Him for loving you with a love so great that we cannot even fully comprehend it. Tell Him how much you love Him because He first loved you.
Alison Down, Pastor
Seventh-day Adventist Church
In HIS Image
In the ancient cultures of Egypt and Mesopotamia, the designation of being “in the image of God” was reserved exclusively for prominent people: kings, important officers, and royal rulers. These people considered their rulers to be gods as week. The Genesis account tells an entirely different story. God made no distinctions as to who was created in His image. God did not make some people more special or unique than the others – He did not separate them by hierarchy and power. Every human being regardless of sex, regardless of position, bears the image of God. Since God is the KING of kings, that makes each one of us special. It does not matter if you have been given a status in society or receive any special gifts at birth. It does not matter whether you are rich or poor, well-educated, or not. When God makes you His very own then you become His daughter, His son! You take on royalty!
Do you see worth in your children? God does. Do you think you could love your children as much as God loves you? Nope. Not unless you are willing to give your life for them despite their behaviour, their own desires, their willfulness. Zephaniah 3:17 says, “The Lord your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in his love he will no longer rebuke you but will rejoice over you with singing” Imagine God loving us so much He sings over you as He rejoices.
“Can a woman forget her nursing child
And have no compassion on the son of her womb?
Even these may forget, but I will not forget you.
'Behold, I have inscribed you on the palms of
My hands' " (Isaiah 49:15, 16).
Take a moment to thank your Creator. Thank Him for deciding to make you in His image. Thank Him for loving you with a love so great that we cannot even fully comprehend it. Tell Him how much you love Him because He first loved you.
Alison Down, Pastor
Seventh-day Adventist Church
KNOX CHRISTIAN REFORMED CHURCH - March 28 2021
Celebrating the King
We devote Palm Sunday to celebrating the triumphal entry of Jesus, the Messianic King, into Jerusalem. The big question however is; do we devote the other 364 days of the year to celebrating the triumphal entry of Jesus into our hearts and lives? We can be quick to proclaim Jesus is Lord with our mouths, but do we proclaim Jesus is Lord with our thoughts and actions? Warning of the dangers of self-deception Jesus asked this piercing question; “Why do you call me ‘Lord, Lord’ and don’t do what I say?” (Luke 6:46). Speaking prophetically of Jesus, Proverbs 18:24 says “there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother”. Jesus demonstrated his friendship by laying down his life for us (John 15:13, Romans 5:1-11). We are quick to claim friendship with Jesus but do we demonstrate friendship? Jesus said, “You are my friends if you do what I command you” (John 15:14); and again, “If you love me, you will keep my commandments” (John 14:1-24).
This Palm Sunday as we celebrate the triumphal entry of Jesus into Jerusalem let’s commit to celebrate
daily the triumphal entry of Jesus into our lives. Let’s answer the call to “awake, sleeper, and arise from
the dead, and Christ will shine on you” (Ephesians 5:14). Let’s strive to “love the Lord our God with all our heart, and with all our soul, and with all our mind, and with all our strength” (Mark 12:28-30). Let’s pray that “the eyes of our heart may be enlightened, so that we will know what is the hope of His calling,
what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance” (Ephesians 1:18). Let’s strive to “know Him and the
power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death” (Philippians 3:10). In doing so we will truly be celebrating the King.
Clint Sheehan
Knox Christian Reformed Church
Celebrating the King
We devote Palm Sunday to celebrating the triumphal entry of Jesus, the Messianic King, into Jerusalem. The big question however is; do we devote the other 364 days of the year to celebrating the triumphal entry of Jesus into our hearts and lives? We can be quick to proclaim Jesus is Lord with our mouths, but do we proclaim Jesus is Lord with our thoughts and actions? Warning of the dangers of self-deception Jesus asked this piercing question; “Why do you call me ‘Lord, Lord’ and don’t do what I say?” (Luke 6:46). Speaking prophetically of Jesus, Proverbs 18:24 says “there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother”. Jesus demonstrated his friendship by laying down his life for us (John 15:13, Romans 5:1-11). We are quick to claim friendship with Jesus but do we demonstrate friendship? Jesus said, “You are my friends if you do what I command you” (John 15:14); and again, “If you love me, you will keep my commandments” (John 14:1-24).
This Palm Sunday as we celebrate the triumphal entry of Jesus into Jerusalem let’s commit to celebrate
daily the triumphal entry of Jesus into our lives. Let’s answer the call to “awake, sleeper, and arise from
the dead, and Christ will shine on you” (Ephesians 5:14). Let’s strive to “love the Lord our God with all our heart, and with all our soul, and with all our mind, and with all our strength” (Mark 12:28-30). Let’s pray that “the eyes of our heart may be enlightened, so that we will know what is the hope of His calling,
what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance” (Ephesians 1:18). Let’s strive to “know Him and the
power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death” (Philippians 3:10). In doing so we will truly be celebrating the King.
Clint Sheehan
Knox Christian Reformed Church
ST PAUL'S UNITED CHURCH - March 7 2021
Lenten Thoughts
One day, two people from the same congregation were having coffee and talking about church stuff:
you know, the regular chitter chatter. Finally, one says to the other, “You know I’ve gone to worship for
30 years now, and in that time I have heard something like 3,000 sermons. But for the life of me, I can’t
remember a single one of them. So, I think I’m wasting my time, and the ministers are wasting theirs by
their giving sermons at all.” Well, the other person thought for a moment and then replied, “You know,
I’ve been married for 30 years. In that time, my wife has cooked some 32,000 meals. But, for the life of
me, I cannot recall the entire menu for a single one of those meals. But I do know this, they all nourished me and gave me the strength I needed to do my work. If my wife had not given me these meals, I would be physically dead today. Likewise, if I had not gone to worship for nourishment, I would be spiritually dead today!”
Worship, like stewardship, is about our response to God; who God is and what God does. As part of our
worship this week, we read Psalm 95. It starts with our response. “Let us shout with joy to the rock of
our salvation. Let us come into God’s presence with thanksgiving; let us joyously shout to God with
songs of praise.” (Ps. 95:1-2)
Worshipping together over this past year has been challenging but congregations everywhere have met
the challenge. We have found a myriad of ways to continue our relationship with God and each other in
worship. As we move forward in these pandemic times and this Season of Lent, I would encourage you
to continue worship practice – offer a prayer and enter into God’s presence; read a passage aloud and
listen to what God is saying to you through the Holy Spirit; and discern a response that you can act
upon.
Margaret Burkholder
Chairperson, St. Paul’s United Church
(with resources from Loving Our Neighbours: Five Sundays of Lent)
Lenten Thoughts
One day, two people from the same congregation were having coffee and talking about church stuff:
you know, the regular chitter chatter. Finally, one says to the other, “You know I’ve gone to worship for
30 years now, and in that time I have heard something like 3,000 sermons. But for the life of me, I can’t
remember a single one of them. So, I think I’m wasting my time, and the ministers are wasting theirs by
their giving sermons at all.” Well, the other person thought for a moment and then replied, “You know,
I’ve been married for 30 years. In that time, my wife has cooked some 32,000 meals. But, for the life of
me, I cannot recall the entire menu for a single one of those meals. But I do know this, they all nourished me and gave me the strength I needed to do my work. If my wife had not given me these meals, I would be physically dead today. Likewise, if I had not gone to worship for nourishment, I would be spiritually dead today!”
Worship, like stewardship, is about our response to God; who God is and what God does. As part of our
worship this week, we read Psalm 95. It starts with our response. “Let us shout with joy to the rock of
our salvation. Let us come into God’s presence with thanksgiving; let us joyously shout to God with
songs of praise.” (Ps. 95:1-2)
Worshipping together over this past year has been challenging but congregations everywhere have met
the challenge. We have found a myriad of ways to continue our relationship with God and each other in
worship. As we move forward in these pandemic times and this Season of Lent, I would encourage you
to continue worship practice – offer a prayer and enter into God’s presence; read a passage aloud and
listen to what God is saying to you through the Holy Spirit; and discern a response that you can act
upon.
Margaret Burkholder
Chairperson, St. Paul’s United Church
(with resources from Loving Our Neighbours: Five Sundays of Lent)
HOLY TRINITY PARISH - Feb 28 2021
“A Moment of Clarity”
Every so often at just the right time comes a meeting, a conversation, a message. Its a moment of clarity, an epiphany, or as I to call it, a Divine appointment. Suddenly after months of confusion, anxiety, worry, frustration, and fatigue it all made sense.
All through the night the apostles “rowing hard against a contrary wind. fearing for their lives, have an encounter with Jesus. He asked why they doubted, then calmed the storm and “ suddenly they arrived safely on the other shore.”
It seems like this past year we have all been rowing hard against this contrary time when many storms have raged. While all of us of faith place our trust in the goodness of God to see us through, many of us, and most of all me, tired and weary from a year of one thing after another, come to a point of physical and emotional exhaustion. We get to that point and we say, “I have had enough, I cannot handle any more. Mercy Lord, mercy!
A friend recently gave me a birthday card on the front of which said, “ Sometimes the Lord calms the storm. Sometimes the Lord lets the storm rage and calms his child.” It has been a while since I have felt calm. On the outside the image of confidence and certainty; on the inside frustrated, worried, and fearfully wondering if the Lord cares that I am drowning. On the inside of the birthday card this handwritten message,
“The storm may be raging but you are a light to so many.”
It was Jesus who walked on the water and Jesus who calmed the storm. Suddenly the long night of rowing hard against the wind forgotten. We the Church, the body of Christ, gifted and empowered are His healing wherever we may be. We are the light and a beacon for others. At that moment, my friend was a light and a beacon for me, providing a moment of clarity. I was no longer worried about the storm because Jesus had calmed the child.
Archdeacon Larry Armstrong - HTP - Cochrane
“A Moment of Clarity”
Every so often at just the right time comes a meeting, a conversation, a message. Its a moment of clarity, an epiphany, or as I to call it, a Divine appointment. Suddenly after months of confusion, anxiety, worry, frustration, and fatigue it all made sense.
All through the night the apostles “rowing hard against a contrary wind. fearing for their lives, have an encounter with Jesus. He asked why they doubted, then calmed the storm and “ suddenly they arrived safely on the other shore.”
It seems like this past year we have all been rowing hard against this contrary time when many storms have raged. While all of us of faith place our trust in the goodness of God to see us through, many of us, and most of all me, tired and weary from a year of one thing after another, come to a point of physical and emotional exhaustion. We get to that point and we say, “I have had enough, I cannot handle any more. Mercy Lord, mercy!
A friend recently gave me a birthday card on the front of which said, “ Sometimes the Lord calms the storm. Sometimes the Lord lets the storm rage and calms his child.” It has been a while since I have felt calm. On the outside the image of confidence and certainty; on the inside frustrated, worried, and fearfully wondering if the Lord cares that I am drowning. On the inside of the birthday card this handwritten message,
“The storm may be raging but you are a light to so many.”
It was Jesus who walked on the water and Jesus who calmed the storm. Suddenly the long night of rowing hard against the wind forgotten. We the Church, the body of Christ, gifted and empowered are His healing wherever we may be. We are the light and a beacon for others. At that moment, my friend was a light and a beacon for me, providing a moment of clarity. I was no longer worried about the storm because Jesus had calmed the child.
Archdeacon Larry Armstrong - HTP - Cochrane
KNOX CHRISTIAN REFORMED CHURCH - Feb 21 2021
Construction Zone
Joseph, because of his brothers’ jealousy, suffered a life of incredible adversity before ending up second in command of Egypt. He later told his brothers; “as for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good in order to bring about this present result, to keep many people alive” (Genesis 50:20). Joseph didn’t absolve his brothers of their direct responsibility, but he did implicitly acknowledge that through it all God was sovereignly working out his plan for greater good. Paul, writing to suffering Christians, explicitly declares; “we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose” (Romans 8:28). Regardless of the immediate causes of our adversity, God is lovingly at work for our greater good. At minimum, this includes refining our faith to prepare us for eternity (1 Peter 1:3-9) and equipping us to minister to those around us suffering similarly (2 Corinthians 1:3-7).
Once we recognize that God works through our adversity for our greater good, we can find strength to persevere knowing “that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus” (Philippians 1:6). This encourages us to actively work together with God to bring his purposes to pass in the world around us by heeding Paul’s charge to “work out your salvation with fear and trembling; for God is the working one in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure” (Philippians 2:12-13). Thereby we fulfill God’s purpose “for we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them” (Ephesians 2:10). Moreover, he “is able to do exceedingly abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us,” so “to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. Amen” (Ephesians 3:20-21).
Clint Sheehan - Knox Christian Reformed Church
Construction Zone
Joseph, because of his brothers’ jealousy, suffered a life of incredible adversity before ending up second in command of Egypt. He later told his brothers; “as for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good in order to bring about this present result, to keep many people alive” (Genesis 50:20). Joseph didn’t absolve his brothers of their direct responsibility, but he did implicitly acknowledge that through it all God was sovereignly working out his plan for greater good. Paul, writing to suffering Christians, explicitly declares; “we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose” (Romans 8:28). Regardless of the immediate causes of our adversity, God is lovingly at work for our greater good. At minimum, this includes refining our faith to prepare us for eternity (1 Peter 1:3-9) and equipping us to minister to those around us suffering similarly (2 Corinthians 1:3-7).
Once we recognize that God works through our adversity for our greater good, we can find strength to persevere knowing “that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus” (Philippians 1:6). This encourages us to actively work together with God to bring his purposes to pass in the world around us by heeding Paul’s charge to “work out your salvation with fear and trembling; for God is the working one in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure” (Philippians 2:12-13). Thereby we fulfill God’s purpose “for we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them” (Ephesians 2:10). Moreover, he “is able to do exceedingly abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us,” so “to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. Amen” (Ephesians 3:20-21).
Clint Sheehan - Knox Christian Reformed Church
SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH - Feb 14 2021
Is Christ Enough?
Sometimes I wonder if God cries when we question our salvation, when we allow worry to
interfere with our future, when we become anxious about our losing our hope. He never has to
ask. He knows that we are wondering - if my salvation is sure? Do I need to add something to
what He has already done? I can almost picture tears in His eyes when our doubt takes over
causing us to wonder – can He really take care of us? Was Jesus’ death on the cross ransom
enough?
Let me tell you here and now: IT IS MORE THAN ENOUGH! “But when Christ had offered for all
time a single sacrifice for sins, he sat down at the right hand of God.” Hebrews 10:12. Our
salvation is secured! It is completed! Our Go’el [Kinsman Redeemer] has done His job!
During these days of Covid-19, when we do not feel worthy of our salvation, remember our
Go’el. For those times when we think all is going well, that the blood of Jesus covers us, and we
do not have to worry about Covid-19. When we begin to feel proud and think we can earn our
own salvation, think of Go’el. Even during those times when we become depressed,
discouraged, and think we have gone too far into sin to come back to God, recall our Go’el.
Let us join with Job as he declares; “I know that my Redeemer lives!” (Job 19:25)
You are not impoverished, and you are not imprisoned. Even though you were once a
captive of Satan, your Rescuer, your Go’el stepped in. When you agree to take your Go’el as
your Redeemer and accept what He has done for you, you are free! “If the Son makes you free,
you will be free indeed!” (John 8:36)
Alison Down, Pastor - Seventh-day Adventist Church
NEW HOPE COMMUNITY CHURCH - Feb 7 2021
7 Reasons to Pray
Rees Howells : Intercessor is a biography of a christian whose prayers shaped the world! A product of the 1904-1905 Welsh Revival, Rees inspired generations to prayers of global impact. The Gospel advanced. Wars were altered. Leaders and regimes were overturned. Maps were redrawn. The impact of his life of prayer is immeasurable throughout the first half of the 20th century. I wonder today, where are the pillars, the prayer warriors that would “stand on the wall” as guardians, to warn and ward off enemy assault? I think the value of prayer has been lost to the modern church. In this reflection, I want to ‘stir you up by way of remembrance’ as to your calling as true believers in Jesus Christ. Remember...
1. Everyone who knows the Lord, who has ‘saving faith’ remember that it’s because SOMEONE prayed for you! Someone brought your name before the throne of God! 2. Prayer is the most direct, impactful means of holding God’s ear! (Psm91:14) 3. Prayer is the language of ‘the secret place of the most High God’ (Psm91:1) for the here and now. Not for heaven. To access the resources of heaven! 4. NOTHING great happens without someone having prayed! John Wesley, “God does nothing but by prayer, and everything with it” 5. Pray about EVERYTHING! It’s the ‘job description’ of believers (Phil 4.6) M. Luther, “as it is the business of tailors to make clothes, so it is the business of Christians to pray” 6. All prayers of faith hit their mark! (Is 55.11) 7. There is an ADVERSARY to prayer. (Mk 9:29) Samuel Chadwick, “the one concern of the devil is to keep Christians from praying” 2Chor 7:14, If my people who are called by my name, humble themselves and PRAY... I will hear, forgive, heal the land! AND THAT IS OUR CALL TODAY!
Pastor Robert Cox - New Hope Community Church
7 Reasons to Pray
Rees Howells : Intercessor is a biography of a christian whose prayers shaped the world! A product of the 1904-1905 Welsh Revival, Rees inspired generations to prayers of global impact. The Gospel advanced. Wars were altered. Leaders and regimes were overturned. Maps were redrawn. The impact of his life of prayer is immeasurable throughout the first half of the 20th century. I wonder today, where are the pillars, the prayer warriors that would “stand on the wall” as guardians, to warn and ward off enemy assault? I think the value of prayer has been lost to the modern church. In this reflection, I want to ‘stir you up by way of remembrance’ as to your calling as true believers in Jesus Christ. Remember...
1. Everyone who knows the Lord, who has ‘saving faith’ remember that it’s because SOMEONE prayed for you! Someone brought your name before the throne of God! 2. Prayer is the most direct, impactful means of holding God’s ear! (Psm91:14) 3. Prayer is the language of ‘the secret place of the most High God’ (Psm91:1) for the here and now. Not for heaven. To access the resources of heaven! 4. NOTHING great happens without someone having prayed! John Wesley, “God does nothing but by prayer, and everything with it” 5. Pray about EVERYTHING! It’s the ‘job description’ of believers (Phil 4.6) M. Luther, “as it is the business of tailors to make clothes, so it is the business of Christians to pray” 6. All prayers of faith hit their mark! (Is 55.11) 7. There is an ADVERSARY to prayer. (Mk 9:29) Samuel Chadwick, “the one concern of the devil is to keep Christians from praying” 2Chor 7:14, If my people who are called by my name, humble themselves and PRAY... I will hear, forgive, heal the land! AND THAT IS OUR CALL TODAY!
Pastor Robert Cox - New Hope Community Church
ST PAUL'S UNITED CHURCH - Jan 31, 2021
They Walk Among Us
As I sit here looking out at a lawn and garden covered in new fallen snow, I can’t help but remember that Spring is really not too far away. I have begun the process of planning my gardens. I am not a
vegetable gardener. Rather, I plant flowers and shrubs that provide splashes of colour around my yard in shades that please my eye. I am also an inconsistent gardener. I need to find those hardy plants that can stand up to some periods of inattention throughout the growing season. Recently, I came upon a delightful book called the Curious Gardener by Peter Brown. The hero of the story is a young boy named Liam who finds himself in a dreary place but when out exploring, he finds a very small garden patch which he nurtures. Eventually the curious garden expands until Liam is joined by many new gardeners who also work to nurture green spaces. Through Liam’s actions, the garden recovers and become a glorious tribute to the resiliency of nature. As a Christian, I have been reading and hearing about messages from God – take care of the vulnerable, seek peace, love justice, care for the earth and for each other. By caring for the earth, Liam has joined, in his own way, the league of prophets that give us God’s messages. Prophets walk amongst us – people who remind us of God’s message if we just take a moment and listen. “The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me, from your brothers – it is to him you shall listen” Deuteronomy 18:15... It is our responsibility as people of God to put forth the time and effort to listen for his messages. We need to find the courage to stand beside those who are his messengers and meet the challenge of the prophets of God.
Margaret Burkholder - Chair, St. Paul’s United Church Council
TRINITY ANGLICAN CHURCH - Jan 24, 2021
Bless the Children
The bible verse from Psalm 46 Vs1; “God is our refuge and our strength, a very present help in trouble”
is important to share with our children, reassuring them that God is bigger than any challenge we face,
even the Coronavirus. It is important to talk openly about fear and courage with our children. Remember how God has cared for you in the past and share these great stories of God’s love with your children. We have the capacity to have conversations and most importantly teach faith, reducing the concerns of the children around us. Offer reassurance by affirming what is steady during this time-including their family’s love, your church’s love and especially God’s love; which doesn’t change in a time of uncertainty. We can teach children that we actually get to choose whether we focus on our fears or on God’s love. We need to model what to do with our fears, reassure them to actually voice their concerns to God and trust him to work out his plan for us. So let your children lead these hard conversations about their worries. Listen to them. Take their fears seriously. But always remember to lead these conversations back to this truth, God wants to be in a relationship with us especially in difficult times. He is always there to love and care for us, offering us peace and comfort. Every morning we enter a new day. Reassure them that the answer to the question, “who knows what that new day will bring?” is ….God knows. He knows the way, what will happen and all that we need. Let’s take this opportunity to build faith, not fear. Here is a link to an excellent resource
DEAR GOD, PRAYERS FOR YOUNG CHILDREN
https://www.anglicanfoundation.org/store/dear-god/
It is available to read online, print, order or to view as an excellent video of it being read aloud by Archbishop Anne Germond, Bishop of the Diocese of Moosonee.
Kim Skidmore
Holy Trinity Anglican Parish
Bless the Children
The bible verse from Psalm 46 Vs1; “God is our refuge and our strength, a very present help in trouble”
is important to share with our children, reassuring them that God is bigger than any challenge we face,
even the Coronavirus. It is important to talk openly about fear and courage with our children. Remember how God has cared for you in the past and share these great stories of God’s love with your children. We have the capacity to have conversations and most importantly teach faith, reducing the concerns of the children around us. Offer reassurance by affirming what is steady during this time-including their family’s love, your church’s love and especially God’s love; which doesn’t change in a time of uncertainty. We can teach children that we actually get to choose whether we focus on our fears or on God’s love. We need to model what to do with our fears, reassure them to actually voice their concerns to God and trust him to work out his plan for us. So let your children lead these hard conversations about their worries. Listen to them. Take their fears seriously. But always remember to lead these conversations back to this truth, God wants to be in a relationship with us especially in difficult times. He is always there to love and care for us, offering us peace and comfort. Every morning we enter a new day. Reassure them that the answer to the question, “who knows what that new day will bring?” is ….God knows. He knows the way, what will happen and all that we need. Let’s take this opportunity to build faith, not fear. Here is a link to an excellent resource
DEAR GOD, PRAYERS FOR YOUNG CHILDREN
https://www.anglicanfoundation.org/store/dear-god/
It is available to read online, print, order or to view as an excellent video of it being read aloud by Archbishop Anne Germond, Bishop of the Diocese of Moosonee.
Kim Skidmore
Holy Trinity Anglican Parish
KNOX CHRISTIAN REFORMED CHURCH - Jan 17, 2021
Changing Plans
It’s an understatement to say life doesn’t always go as planned. That’s not easy, but ultimately it’s for the best. The Lord said, “My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways my ways. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts” (Isaiah 55:8-9). One time Augustine had prepared to preach on Psalm 138 but the public reader inadvertently read Psalm 139. Calmly, Augustine instead preached from Psalm 139 saying; “we have deemed it preferable to see in the reader’s mistake a sign of the will of God and to follow that, rather than to do our own will by sticking to our original plan.”
[Biblical Queen] Esther is a case study in unanticipated turns in life. Lee Fields observes; “Esther had been taken into the Persian harem and forced to play the new-queen beauty contest, and she successfully won the favor of the ruthless and lustful king Xerxes. The mystery of a combination of circumstances beyond her control and her own comportment had brought her to a moment of decision, a moment that will forever change her life and the lives of untold others.” Mordecai recognized the providential hand of God at work; “For if you keep silent at this time, liberation and rescue will arise for the Jews from another place, and you and your father’s house will perish. And who knows whether you have not attained royalty for such a time as this?” (Esther 4:14).
Like Esther, circumstances beyond our control combined with our own morally ambiguous decisions has brought us to today. We can’t change our circumstances, nor can we undo our past, but we trust; “God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose” (Romans 8:28). Much is beyond our control, but each day provides opportunity to live for the Lord through obedience to his Word. Life may not be perfect, but it can be purposeful.
Clint Sheehan
Changing Plans
It’s an understatement to say life doesn’t always go as planned. That’s not easy, but ultimately it’s for the best. The Lord said, “My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways my ways. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts” (Isaiah 55:8-9). One time Augustine had prepared to preach on Psalm 138 but the public reader inadvertently read Psalm 139. Calmly, Augustine instead preached from Psalm 139 saying; “we have deemed it preferable to see in the reader’s mistake a sign of the will of God and to follow that, rather than to do our own will by sticking to our original plan.”
[Biblical Queen] Esther is a case study in unanticipated turns in life. Lee Fields observes; “Esther had been taken into the Persian harem and forced to play the new-queen beauty contest, and she successfully won the favor of the ruthless and lustful king Xerxes. The mystery of a combination of circumstances beyond her control and her own comportment had brought her to a moment of decision, a moment that will forever change her life and the lives of untold others.” Mordecai recognized the providential hand of God at work; “For if you keep silent at this time, liberation and rescue will arise for the Jews from another place, and you and your father’s house will perish. And who knows whether you have not attained royalty for such a time as this?” (Esther 4:14).
Like Esther, circumstances beyond our control combined with our own morally ambiguous decisions has brought us to today. We can’t change our circumstances, nor can we undo our past, but we trust; “God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose” (Romans 8:28). Much is beyond our control, but each day provides opportunity to live for the Lord through obedience to his Word. Life may not be perfect, but it can be purposeful.
Clint Sheehan
SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST - Jan. 10, 2021
And those who are wise shall shine like the brightness of the sky above; and those who turn many to righteousness, like the stars forever and ever. Dan. 12:3 ESV This is one of those sparkly verses in Scripture that radiate enduring brightness. I love the symbolism of light. The two preceding verses peak of times of difficulty and the resurrection, but the passage ends on wisdom and present the principal goal of Christianity – turning many to righteousness. Fascinating isn’t it? The blessing of God is not mentioned for those who win Scripture debate contests. Instead, God values faith that changes people by example. As we have just stepped through the doorway of a new year, it’s a good time to pause and take stock of what we value, how we spend our time. Faith is founded on God’s words, not ours. He speaks truth that we can count on. Truth for doctrine, truth for living all week long. The sharing of faith is a role that belongs to you and to me. God gives us a context for how we are to do that. While faith comes from the WORD of God (Rom. 10:17), it is the life witness of the individual Christian that will make this faith appealing to others. This means that how you and I live this year will either turn many to righteousness or turn them away. If we are wise, we will choose to show faith more than speak about it. Talk is cheap. Actions are what count. By spending time sharing with others online or in person, depending on circumstances, as a neighbour and friend, we are doing our part in God’s plan of salvation. In a moment of crisis, you, I, can be a glimmer of hope for those nearby. Why not become the preferred friend in difficult days? Listening accomplishes more than speaking. You and I can shine brightly in our life of compassion for others. Shall we make 2021 the year of living compassionately on our street, in our neighbourhood, among our friends? Let it shine (Matt. 5:16)!
Mark Johnson, President of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Canada
NEW HOPE COMMUNITY - Jan 3, 2021
The End is the Beginning
2020 is ending, and many would say “good riddance” as our world has experienced challenges responding to COVID-19. While it stretched our limits and patience as personal freedoms were being sacrificed for greater good, there was no doubt that in the testing and stretching, many new things were developed to strengthen our global community. No doubt new appreciation for simple freedoms was experienced, and many good things in communication and sharing have been born out of the ashes.
With the birth of new things, sometimes older things, even good things, come to an end. So it is with this Reflection article spot in the Newspaper. Over the last year we have interviewed many and found that in most cases the article was unknown or unread. CAMA decided this year that there now existed more efficient ways to communicate event news as well as messages of God’s love and guidance. We have created a cochranechurches.com website as well as an @cochraneministerail FaceBook page, both of which will be used by all interested churches of the community, to share a weekly reflection. We have also rented the ‘road-sign’ at the Westway Hotel parking lot beside the Tim Horton’s Drive-thru, for the first week of every month. The churches will take turns highlighting Christian community insights and highlights. So thank you for your patronage over the last 30 or so years. Thank you to the Cochrane Times-Post for keeping space for us. And thank you to our Lord Jesus, who continues to offer hope and welcome to all those who are broken and lost. He is and will always be, “the Way, the Truth and the Life” for all who seek God!
Pastor Robert Cox – New Hope Community Church
and Cochrane Ministerial Association (CAMA)
The End is the Beginning
2020 is ending, and many would say “good riddance” as our world has experienced challenges responding to COVID-19. While it stretched our limits and patience as personal freedoms were being sacrificed for greater good, there was no doubt that in the testing and stretching, many new things were developed to strengthen our global community. No doubt new appreciation for simple freedoms was experienced, and many good things in communication and sharing have been born out of the ashes.
With the birth of new things, sometimes older things, even good things, come to an end. So it is with this Reflection article spot in the Newspaper. Over the last year we have interviewed many and found that in most cases the article was unknown or unread. CAMA decided this year that there now existed more efficient ways to communicate event news as well as messages of God’s love and guidance. We have created a cochranechurches.com website as well as an @cochraneministerail FaceBook page, both of which will be used by all interested churches of the community, to share a weekly reflection. We have also rented the ‘road-sign’ at the Westway Hotel parking lot beside the Tim Horton’s Drive-thru, for the first week of every month. The churches will take turns highlighting Christian community insights and highlights. So thank you for your patronage over the last 30 or so years. Thank you to the Cochrane Times-Post for keeping space for us. And thank you to our Lord Jesus, who continues to offer hope and welcome to all those who are broken and lost. He is and will always be, “the Way, the Truth and the Life” for all who seek God!
Pastor Robert Cox – New Hope Community Church
and Cochrane Ministerial Association (CAMA)
SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST - December 21 2020
Who is this Babe?
Who is this Babe in the manger in Bethlehem? Angels will tell us, He is the “Saviour, which is Christ the Lord (Luke 2:11) Adam tells us: He is “The Seed of the woman that shall bruise the serpent’s head (Gen. 3:15) Abraham states He is the King of Salem, the King of Peace (Heb. 7:1) Jacob informs us that He is Shiloh of the tribe of Judah. (Gen. 49:10) Mathew notifies us He is Immanuel, God with us. (Matt. 1:23) Isaiah assures us He is Almighty God Everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6)
Jeremiah enlightens us that He is “the Lord our Righteousness”. (Jer. 23:6) Daniel advises He is the Prince, the Anointed One. (Dan. 9:25) Hosea communicates to us that He is “the Lord God of hosts” (Hos. 12:5) John the Baptist declares “Behold the Lamb of God”. (John 1:29) And God Himself proclaims “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” (Matt 3:17) Thus, we may well say, “This is Jesus Christ, our Saviour, our Redeemer and our adopted Big Brother! May the blessings of this Christmas Season bring each one, peace within our hearts, joy in our spirit, and love within and without.
Alison Down, Pastor, Seventh-day Adventist Church
Who is this Babe?
Who is this Babe in the manger in Bethlehem? Angels will tell us, He is the “Saviour, which is Christ the Lord (Luke 2:11) Adam tells us: He is “The Seed of the woman that shall bruise the serpent’s head (Gen. 3:15) Abraham states He is the King of Salem, the King of Peace (Heb. 7:1) Jacob informs us that He is Shiloh of the tribe of Judah. (Gen. 49:10) Mathew notifies us He is Immanuel, God with us. (Matt. 1:23) Isaiah assures us He is Almighty God Everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6)
Jeremiah enlightens us that He is “the Lord our Righteousness”. (Jer. 23:6) Daniel advises He is the Prince, the Anointed One. (Dan. 9:25) Hosea communicates to us that He is “the Lord God of hosts” (Hos. 12:5) John the Baptist declares “Behold the Lamb of God”. (John 1:29) And God Himself proclaims “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” (Matt 3:17) Thus, we may well say, “This is Jesus Christ, our Saviour, our Redeemer and our adopted Big Brother! May the blessings of this Christmas Season bring each one, peace within our hearts, joy in our spirit, and love within and without.
Alison Down, Pastor, Seventh-day Adventist Church
KNOX - December 14 2020
The Advent of Liberty
Christmastime is here again and so it’s a good opportunity to remind ourselves of Zechariah’s prophecy
that Jesus would fulfil God’s promise “to grant us that we, being rescued from the hand of our enemies,
would serve God without fear” (Luke 1:74). Jesus launched his public ministry declaring himself the
fulfilment of Isaiah’s prophecy that “the Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because He anointed me to bring
good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim liberty to captives, to set free those who are
oppressed,” (Luke 4:14-21; Isaiah 61:1-9). Jesus did proclaim liberty for sinners; “Friend, your sins are
forgiven” (Luke 5:20). He also proclaimed liberty for the suffering; “Woman, you are freed from your
sickness” (Luke 13:12). Concerning the corpse of Lazarus dead three days, echoing the words of Moses
to Pharaoh, Jesus proclaimed “Unbind him, and let him go” (John 11:44). These were not generic
platitudes but personal proclamations of genuine liberty to real individuals.
Through the First Advent, in Christ we have “been freed from sin and enslaved to God” (Romans 6:22).
Through the Second Advent creation itself is going to be freed from the curse (Romans 8:18-25) and all
those in Christ will be liberated from all suffering when God “will dwell among His people, and wipe
away every tear from their eyes; and there will no longer be any death; there will no longer be any
mourning, or crying, or pain” (Revelation 21:3-4). Because Christmas commemorates the birth of Jesus,
the Messiah and Savior who came to liberate, we can shout “Where, O Death, is your victory? Where, O
Death, is your sting? Thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ” (1
Corinthians 15:55-57).
ST PAUL'S UNITED - DEC 7 2020
Christmas Elves
Each year homes are visited by a Christmas Elf. For many years, I would see posts and advertisements for the “Elf on a Shelf”, a mischievous little fellow who would get himself into the most dubious of situations while cautioning the children in the home to “be good because he was Santa’s eyes and ears” and “I will be reporting to Santa about your behaviour each day.” Frankly the adventures that I would see this little elf get into did not sit well with me simply because I felt that the elf was not leading by example. When I became a grandmother, I searched for a different way to bring together the excitement of Santa’s impending visit and helping my grandchildren understand that the Christmas season is so much more than receiving. And we discovered the “Kindness Elves”. Their origin is not very clear but I used the story from Anna Ranson of the Imagination Tree and created homemade elves that come along on December 1st. They have been sent by Santa but they have daily missions for the children to accomplish. As each mission is completed, a link is added to a paper chain that is hung on the tree. When Santa comes to deliver the presents, he will see the chain and take his elf friends back to the North Pole knowing that the children have taken time to do good deeds for family and friends.
In the United Church, the first Sunday of Advent is ‘hope’. It is my hope that my grandchildren will discover with the help of their kindness elf, that the true message of Christmas is what we do for others. That even the youngest amongst us can follow in Christ’s footsteps and be a beacon of kindness in a challenging world. Here is a kindness elf mission for each of you: donate to a Cochrane charity this month. Times are hard for so many here in our little town and we all have something that we can share with others. Margaret Burkholder - Chair, St. Paul’s United Church
Christmas Elves
Each year homes are visited by a Christmas Elf. For many years, I would see posts and advertisements for the “Elf on a Shelf”, a mischievous little fellow who would get himself into the most dubious of situations while cautioning the children in the home to “be good because he was Santa’s eyes and ears” and “I will be reporting to Santa about your behaviour each day.” Frankly the adventures that I would see this little elf get into did not sit well with me simply because I felt that the elf was not leading by example. When I became a grandmother, I searched for a different way to bring together the excitement of Santa’s impending visit and helping my grandchildren understand that the Christmas season is so much more than receiving. And we discovered the “Kindness Elves”. Their origin is not very clear but I used the story from Anna Ranson of the Imagination Tree and created homemade elves that come along on December 1st. They have been sent by Santa but they have daily missions for the children to accomplish. As each mission is completed, a link is added to a paper chain that is hung on the tree. When Santa comes to deliver the presents, he will see the chain and take his elf friends back to the North Pole knowing that the children have taken time to do good deeds for family and friends.
In the United Church, the first Sunday of Advent is ‘hope’. It is my hope that my grandchildren will discover with the help of their kindness elf, that the true message of Christmas is what we do for others. That even the youngest amongst us can follow in Christ’s footsteps and be a beacon of kindness in a challenging world. Here is a kindness elf mission for each of you: donate to a Cochrane charity this month. Times are hard for so many here in our little town and we all have something that we can share with others. Margaret Burkholder - Chair, St. Paul’s United Church