“Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.” (Ephesians 5:1)

Does the bible set the bar too high?

Listen to Mike’s talk to see what he thinks.

Hear how he makes a connection to Prince Philip and the Queen.

Spot a couple of faces from the Benefice!

“The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases. “

Challenged to follow God’s example, living a life of love, loving one another as Jesus loved us - is it too difficult?

Paul suggests his readers follow his example - that’s a bit remote - what examples of steadfast love do we have ? Mike refers us to Prince Philip and his steadfast reliability.

What solace do we find in the bible when a loved one dies?

For Christians do not grieve like those who have no hope. We grieve but do not despair.

“So we do not lose heart. Even though our outer nature is wasting away, our

inner nature is being renewed day by day. For this slight momentary affliction

is preparing us for an eternal weight of glory beyond all measure, because we

look not at what can be seen but at what cannot be seen; for what can be

seen is temporary, but what cannot be seen is eternal.” (2 Corinthians 4:16)

We know our bodies are wasting away but our citizenship is in heaven - this is the hope that Queen has and so do we.

Listen to Mike’s talk by clicking on the link above.

Prayers

Gracious God,
We praise you for the light of new life
made possible through Jesus.
We praise you for the light of new life
that shone on the first witnesses of resurrection.
We praise you for the light of new life
that continues to shine in our hearts today.

Amen

Eternal God, our heavenly Father,

we bless your holy name for all that you have given us in and through the life of Philip, Duke of Edinburgh.

We give you thanks: for his long and full life; for his strength of character;

and for his devotion and service to family, nation and Commonwealth.

We praise you for: his generosity; the many contributions he made to our national life;

and the encouragement he gave to so many, especially to the young.

God grant to the living, grace; to the departed, rest;

to the Church, the Queen, the Commonwealth, and all humankind, peace and concord;

and to us and all his servants, life everlasting;

Amen