Author: faithrootsdw

What is the preacher meant to do … and how should we introduce them?

The other day, I wrote about one of my bugbears which is the way in which sometimes preachers are introduced as being about to explain God’s Word.  You can read here why I don’t like that phrase. This prompted the legitimate question “then how should the service leader introduce the speaker?” My answer would be… Continue reading What is the preacher meant to do … and how should we introduce them?

No, the Supreme Court’s decision on a Scottish Independence referendum did not mark the death of democracy.

The Supreme Court has ruled that the Scottish Parliament does not have the power to call another referendum on independence. Obviously, the SNP and their supporters are upset and disappointed by this. They have every right to campaign for independence and wanted the opportunity for a new vote. I’m not sure that they’ve got reason… Continue reading No, the Supreme Court’s decision on a Scottish Independence referendum did not mark the death of democracy.

Preparation

Joseph of Arimathea requests the body of Jesus and arranges to have it buried. Read Mark 15:40-47 Jesus’ execution has happened on a Friday, the day before Sabbath. Properly speaking, the sabbath would commence from the evening of that day.  It was not considered good for the bodies to be left hanging or the execution… Continue reading Preparation

On crossing picket lines: Taking sides isn’t a binary choice

I saw a tweet the other day where the person argued that for a worker to cross a picket line meant that they had taken sides in the dispute and that they could not ignore the point that all decisions have consequences. Well, yes, in a sense.  Of course it is true that when we… Continue reading On crossing picket lines: Taking sides isn’t a binary choice

Euthanasia and the real choice: A culture of life or a culture of death?

The other day, I wrote about concerning proposals coming out of Canada which could have profound and disturbing consequences.  The proposal is that medically assisted dying (euthanasia) should be made available for those with disabilities and for children, even under 1 year old.  The purpose for this is said to be that this would enable… Continue reading Euthanasia and the real choice: A culture of life or a culture of death?

Advent Reflections available from Faithroots

This year, Advent begins on the 27th November. Some Christians find it helpful during Advent and the lead up to Christmas to set aside time for reflection each day. The other year, I put together a series of short talks/meditations linking to specific carols. I’ve included a mixture of advent hymns such as “Oh Come… Continue reading Advent Reflections available from Faithroots

Stop saying that the preacher will explain the passage

I’m going to fess up to one of my bug bears.  It really irritates me when a service leader announces that such and such a person is “now going to come and explain the Bible passage.”  Please can we get out of the habit of doing this. First of all, it gets the idea into… Continue reading Stop saying that the preacher will explain the passage

Ashamed I hear my mocking voice

Stuart Townend’s hymn “How deep the Father’s Love for us” says: Behold the man upon a crossMy sin upon His shouldersAshamed, I hear my mocking voiceCall out among the scoffersIt was my sin that held Him thereUntil it was accomplishedHis dying breath has brought me lifeI know that it is finished The aim of Pilate’s… Continue reading Ashamed I hear my mocking voice