Future Worship at the East.
14th July 2019
Colossians 1.1-14
The letter begins by giving thanks for the faith, love and hope that characterize the church at Colossae. Paul delights in the fruit that they are bearing already I in their Christian life, and prays for the resources they need to continue growing as kingdom people.
21st July 2019
Colossians 1.15-28
In a lyrical text, Paul invites reflection on the glory of Jesus, revealed in creation, known in the church, reconciling everything to God. He writes of his dedication to a life of preaching this good news and helping people to be reconciled to God in Christ.
28th July 2019
Colossians 2.6-15,(16-19)
Paul reminds the Colossians that they belong to Christ in baptism and through his sacrifice on the cross. Therefore, they need to live in the power of his forgiveness and not be led astray onto other paths that claim to bring salvation.
4th August 2019
Colossians 3.1-11
As Christians, our lives belong to Christ in God, hidden until he is revealed in glory. Therefore, we must turn from lifestyles that are alien to Christ and live as people clothed in ‘ new creation’, where the old distinctions based on race or faith are forgotten.
11th August 2019
Luke 12.32-40 ‘
Do not be afraid,’ Jesus tells his disciples. God offers the chance of building credit in heaven rather than having to depend on vulnerable purses. And, incredibly, he is a master who is ready to serve his own slaves – it is worth staying awake for his arrival
18th August 2019
Luke 12.49-56
Two images of judgement – fire and water – lead into an exploration of how faith can divide families, and a challenge to the crowds to recognise the implications of Jesus’ ministry as clearly as they recognize changing weather.
25th August 2019
Luke 13.10-17
Jesus is teaching in the synagogue on the sabbath. He heals a woman who is bent double. The synagogue leader criticizes Jesus for healing on the sabbath. But Jesus reminds his opponents that they care for their animals on the sabbath. Surely the woman matters more than an animal!
1st September 2019
Luke 14.1,7-14
While eating a meal with a leader of the Pharisees, Jesus notices guests who choose the places of honour. He tells a parable in which the host of a wedding banquet embarrasses some guests by asking them to move so that the places of honour can be given to those more deserving.
8th September 2019
Philemon 1-21
Paul sends Onesimus, a runaway slave, back to his former master with an appeal that he is forgiven, freed, and welcomed into the family as a ‘beloved brother’.
15th September 2019
Luke 15.1-10
Jesus tells two parables that explore themes of loss: one about a shepherd going in search of his lost sheep, the other about a woman who cleans her house until she finds a lost coin.
