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Reverend Paul Collings BTh (Hons) - - - - paul.collings@methodist.org.uk - - - - 01392 206229 - - - - 07941 880768

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We are a community of faith seeking to discover the face of Jesus Christ in our Church, in our Community and in our Commitment.

Wednesday 6 March 2024

Faith Thoughts


In this next Faith Thought from Thomas Merton we discover words of wisdom for living the life of a disciple.  “Be good, keep your feet dry, your eyes open, your heart at peace and your soul in the joy of Christ.” 

Following such a recipe for life can make a tremendous difference. Richard Stearns, author of The Hole in Our Gospel, was CEO of multiple large companies. He felt God calling him to serve others and left to become the leader of World Vision. As he explained in an interview, he felt that leaving his position and joining World Vision “was an opportunity not just to talk the talk but to walk the walk”


Many talk the talk, but what about walking the walk. We may Talk the Talk, but do We Walk the Walk?


Jesus words regarding these double standards are hard hitting as he quotes Isaiah in Matthew 15:9 “These people make a big show of saying the right thing, but their heart isn’t in it. They act like they’re worshiping me,  but they don’t mean it. They just use me as a cover for teaching whatever suits their fancy.” (The Message)


How can we avoid falling into this trap? Paul in Philippians writes, “Fix your thoughts on what is true and good and right. Think about things that are pure and lovely, and dwell on the fine, good things in others. Think about all you can praise God for and be glad about.”


God of peace,

cause us to rejoice in you always,

make us gentle to everyone,

keep us from being anxious about anything—

help us to ask you for what we need, with thanksgiving;

and let your peace

guard our hearts and minds

in Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.


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