The strength of Faith. 

“Everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ

has been born of God.” 

1 John 5:1

The lectionary sets out the epistle of 1 John 5:1-6 as one of this week’s readings, and as we  immerse ourselves in the words we see very quickly a rich tapestry of faith, love, and triumph woven by the beloved disciple.   Jesus had a special relationship with John, a deep bond and love, so much so that while on the cross Jesus entrusted his own Mother Mary to John’s care.

So John calls us to encounter Jesus through an invitation — an invitation to plunge deep into  the truth that our belief in Jesus as the Christ births us into the family of God.

As we travel our individual journey of faith, may these words be a guiding light, shining brightly and with the assurance that through Christ, we are equipped to navigate life's challenges with resilience and hope.  Yet our faith goes beyond the solitary to  a communal journey, intertwined with the lives of those around us. As we extend love to our neighbours, we mirror the boundless love of our Creator, creating ripples of transformation.

Imagine a spring that never runs dry, so too we can allow the love of God to flow freely from our hearts, quenching the thirst of a parched world. Let's walk the talk of faith as we follow the footsteps of Jesus embodying faith through compassionate action.

Yes we all face the complexities of life, and when we do may we draw strength from the promise that our faith empowers us to overcome every obstacle. With unwavering trust in God's faithfulness, let's anchor our souls in the unshakeable truth of His Word, knowing that nothing and no-one will ever separate us from God’s  love.

May the love of God and the power of the Holy Spirit propel us to live courageously, love extravagantly, and walk humbly in the footsteps of our Saviour. For in Him, we find the ultimate victory — the victory that conquers fear, doubt, and despair.  To God be the glory, great things God has done and is doing.

Blessings, Rev. Carmel