February's Pastoral Letter is written by Revd Sue Percey, our Minister

Just recently I have been convicted of a need to live a more prayer centred life. To set aside regular times in the day to be with God. My reading this year is to centre on prayer and I’ve started the year with a book called ‘Simply Surrender’, it is a devotional book aimed to last 30 days with short reflections morning and evening

I have also been challenged recently by the examples of prayer I see around me. I have just reread the story of Daniel and have been touched again by his commitment to prayer in spite being commanded not to! Daniel continued to pray in full view of those very people he knew would report him to the King. It made me question my own commitment to prayer and what my own response would be should I find myself in a similar situation. Let’s remember those who find themselves in countries where they do not have liberty to pray in freedom.

One of the reflections in ‘Simply Surrender’ was this. ‘Our father does not inspire us to do what cannot be

done.’ That resonated with me. What is it that God has asked us to do that we have either refused to take up or have dithered with? And if God has inspired us then who are we to decline?

We are facing a challenging year. In May we will elect Elders – have you thought about who you feel has the qualities to lead us in this way? Or do you feel the stirrings of a call yourself to leadership? Please bring this whole area to God in prayer and please speak to me about it, I value your opinions.

We also face the challenge of musicians to lead us. Are you hiding your light under a bowl? We are blessed to have such a willing and talented team of musicians but they need a break at times and so we can always employ more. Even if it is not your gifting, please bring it to God in prayer and speak to Nick or myself.

Our prayer life is so vital – it is the life blood of the church. Are you involved in a prayer activity? Some meet together to pray, housegroups pray together, prayer is offered up via the basket and at various meetings. Can you commit to praying for a Church activity or a specific person? It is such an encouragement when we know we are being prayed for and such a blessing when we see answers to prayers too. Verity coordinates our various prayer activities, speak to her about it.

Just as our own earthly relationships need conversation and communication to deepen and grow, so does our relationship with the Godhead.

We lead busy lives, our diaries are often full, but let’s afford ourselves 10 minutes at the beginning and the end of each day to be in conversation with our maker.

Take time with me this year to talk more to the God who created you and I, take time to listen to what he has to say to you, jot it down and let’s be amazed together at what God has for us in 2012!

We were created to be in relationship with Him!

Your friend and Pastor

Sue