KCF Notes 2026

Please note:
These are mainly my notes & thoughts from the messages spoken to KCF.

23/8 Jamie Mackintosh Lk 9:23,24   Snakes & Ladders

  Songs match. How we move through life. Be thou my vision. God is our riches. Heal my heart and make it clean. What does Jesus want? Lk 9:23,24. The pattern of life, how we walk through it. Is it snakes and ladders? Jesus slow steady steps, don't rush ahead. Not a game of chance. How many can imagine life differently? Have we achieved success. Jesus calls us to be different. It's not a shortcut or an easy way through life's events. It is a slow deliberate costly path. There are no ladders. We learn through the efforts and the set backs. Faithful daily obedience with deliberate steps is the way. You can't fast track a rose. Choose Scripture over scrolling. Each step shapes us. Snakes send us back, Jesus path is narrow and not easy. Sin and spiritual danger is real. Eph 6:10-18 prepare and stand against cosmic powers of darkness. We don't face the snakes alone. Distractions can get us off course. Even for a moment can have serious consequences. Put phone down, guard your heart. When we are sliding backwards Jesus is there to meet us Ps 27 Jesus stops us falling. God upholds us, protects us shows us mercy. He will carry us forward. Each step with Jesus is sanctified. Rom 8:28. Jesus works slowly with us. Pray, serve, repent, worship daily. This builds resilience, and gives us the time to develop and grow. Be present in the creation. Ps 46:10 presence, not inactive. Let Holy Spirit work in each step. Walk with a lover, slow to their pace, reduce the stress. There is a final square, eternal life. Jn 14:2,3. Ps20-30 God's dwelling place, Jesus transformed. The last square is the goal. Endurance is the purpose. Build your hope through Christ. We are called to take up our cross and walk slowly and deliberately with Christ in his protection.

16/8 Jill Walker Lk 10:25-37   Which people?

  "Fill me with your heart and lead me in Your love to those around me" (Build My Life. Redman et al.) What have we done with the ones He has given us? Those in the various circle's of relationships around us: parents, children, spouses, cousins, bf's, church family, wider community, less familiar people. What are we doing? Honour Parents, love spouse, care for church family. We are meant to help, support and make disciples. Lk 10:25-37 do we stop for people in need? Is it only those like us? Are we aware enough to know who or how to help? Difficult or different people need help too. The Order of Mustard Seed monastic group has three vows: to be true to Christ, to be kind to people, and to take the Gospel to the nations. Who is God pointing out to us Mt 10:8 heal the sick, raise the dead. Be aware of unconscious bias. Acts 10:1-48 God teaches Peter that the gospel is for everyone. We may encounter traditiohnal styles of worship. Teach the full gospel. Teach things of Holy Spirit and prayer. God may lead you to places where Shaman live nearby in the forest. Will Jesus love compel us to go where He calls us. Jn 13:34,35. There are some people not to go Mt 7:6, those who don't value what we share, Titus 1:10,11, rebelious, divisive people, Rom 16:17. Fill me with your heart. 1 Tim 1:9,10 murderers & sexually immoral. Pray for King's and those in authority, 1 Tim 2:2. Mt 5:7-9, Mt 25:40, Jas 5:19,20. Who is God asking you to prioritise?

9/8 Paul Younger Ruth Ch1-4.   Plans

  Many prominent people are often misquoted
e.g. Captain Kirk didn’t say “Beam me up Scotty”,
Sherlock Holmes didn’t say “Elementary my dear Watson”.
Robert Burns “The best-laid schemes o' mice an 'men Gang aft agley, An'lea'e us nought but grief an' pain, For promis'd joy! ar'd wi' me The present only toucheth thee: But, Och! I backward cast my e'e. On prospects drear! An' forward, tho' I canna see,I guess an' fear!” has become: The best laid plans of mice and men often go awry.
Our best laid plans rarely unfold as we hoped. We try to make the arrangements for who & when we marry; or decide when to have that operation. We try to organise our preparation for that task, to allow for rest and get ready for the job. Our plans seldom survive the first engagement of the enemy. Baldrick’s announcement, “I have a cunning plan” was the cue for chaos to ensue. People have been making plans since Old Testament days. Elimelech was struggling to find food in Judah so upped sticks to Moab, where there was plenty. It seemed sensible and started well. He hadn’t expected to die there. Naomi adapted the plan. her sons married Moabite women, who were very soon widowed. She then started to organise her return to Judah as there were reports of food. She wanted her daughters-in-law to remain with their families. Orpah did, eventually, Ruth went with Naomi. Ruth went gleaning for food in the fields. The field she chose belonged to a relative of Elimelech. Her plan to follow the harvesters wasn’t risk free, but she got food and came to no harm. Naomi was back on the case and advised Ruth to offer herself to Boaz for marriage. Boaz behaved honourably and gentlemanly throughout. He even deferred to a closer relative (who he managed to talk out of fulfilling his duties). Boaz took responsibility for Ruth as a good kinsman-redeemer. They married and had a son, Obed. Naomi thanked God for her grandson and praised Him for her guardian-redeemer. Obed was the father of Jesse, the father of David. It was a good outcome. Behind all their little schemes, there was actually a master plan, put in place by the Master, God himself. Do our plans assume we are in full control and the central figure in all that happens? Sometimes we are just pawns. Ruth’s story is one part of a multi-part series of events in history that were a fulfilment of divine prophecy: The Messiah will come from the line of David. This was thousands of years in the unfolding.

2/8 Richard Hobson Phil 3:1-11   Safe

  Feeling safe. We need a reason to rejoice. Not just feeling happy, deeper than emotion. This comes from a deliberate choice to obey His command and Delight in God, his character, promises, good news, salvation. These are true whatever we are feeling. He is unchanging. Eccles times for different seasons, all deserve praise to God. Jesus is always God. Discipline and obedience. There are many distractions, focus on God. Paul suffered much. God is sovereign. Jeremiah Burrows we try raise our comfort levels, not the way. Saints Everlasting Rest. We are not detached from the difficulties. Repeating what he already said is to safeguard us. Danger v2 unpleasant and wild natured gentiles is how Paul describes the Jewish teachers. This is harmful to God's people. Circumcision is no longer the basis of their relationship with God, it is Jesus. Through faith and trust in God alone is our salvation. Rom 7, the battle, we can feel defeated. Flee from the performance treadmill. Reasons for confidence are not, the cut, the lineage, the heritage, the fervour. Anything that detracts from Christ finished work on the cross. Faithfulness and service are good, but must flow from love for Christ and the grace we have received. We are adopted and accepted by Him. Paul's best efforts count for nothing towards his righteousness. Rubbish is really an offensive term. Our efforts will actually condemn us. Our righteousness comes through faith. Paul repeatedly reminds the church of this. There will always be false teachers, some very cunning. They will steal your joy. Stability and certainty is found in the truth of Paul's teaching. Sin and failure no longer shake us. Jesus word is reliable, trust and follow Him. Acts 2:36, Lk certainty = safety. Before sanctification, start with righteousness in Christ. Wholeheartedly trust in Jesus. Faith, grace, christ alone, for God's glory. Gal 2:20.

26/7 Jerin George Rom 8:28, Lk 10:25-29   Our Plans

  2016-24 was a testing time for the Jerin family. It was not enjoyable, he became irritated with God. 2018 was time to medidate on this verse. It didn't feel good, there were consequences of some wrong decisions. There was no quick fix, a period of 3-4 years elapsed. A medical doctor friend asked what can you do if your arms and legs are brocken? It was a season to rest and wait on God. If we think God is taking too long, learn from this parable. Lk 10:25-29. Don't try to get tricky with Jesus! Jerico was a full day walk from Jerusalem. We don't know if the man was going for business or pleasure. He hadn't anticipated the attck. He was robbed and left with nothing. Our plans can get disrupted, but God knows everything. At times physical wounds can heal quicker than the emotional hurt. The injured man was perhaps looking for comfort from the priest. The priest didn't come to him, but avoided him. Maybe some sympathy from the Levite; he too kept his distance. People do not always act in the way we expect. Some don't want to get dragged into situations that can demand more effort than they want to give. Jerin wanted to go to church: it was 50ºc no car, friends didn't come. He arrived, but his mind was not in that place, thinking about the people who were ignoring/avioding him. His prayer changed from, "God, get me out of here", to "God help me". He started thinking about the good times and ignoring the bad times. Sometimes people in our lives act like Levites. Trust God that the good Samaritan will come along. The Samaritan not only change the current situation, but also tranformed the future. He took responsibility for the injured man. A person appointed by God does all that God intends. On 17/7/21 Jerin was contacted by someone he had not seen for months and enabled Jerin to phone Tess and arrange for her to come to Bahrain. God sent the right person with a surprise package. Priests and Levites had limitations. The Samaritan was the complete solution. Prov 3:5,6 instructs us to trust God totally. Nothing happens to us that God doesn't know about. He can use everything for our benefit. We don't see the full picture. God does and He knows our physical and finacial situation. They will not hinder Him. God is able. He will not forsake us or leave us on the roadside. We will be victorious.

19/7 Michael Palmer didn't arrive.

12/7 Jamie Mackintosh Mt 13:1-9,18-23   Listen, let the word take root.

 The Sower. Listen, let the word take root. Pivot point. The Kingdom grows quietly, mysteriously. The parables explain why Jesus message produces different reactions. The heart shaped by the beatitudes receives the good news and produces fruit of the Spirit. Jesus walks down to the water, many gather. He gets set and preaches. Throws out a story, like seed. An inefficient way of sowing. God's word is not rationed. It may appear like the inexperienced approach on Clarkson's farm. Jesus is not incompetent, He is generous, abundant. Some hearts are like the path trampled on, compacted, hardened, spiritually dull. To listen is more than hearing. To respond with more than shallow enthusiasm. The seed on rocky ground begins new, fresh, lively, yet fragile without resilience. Next the thorns, the choked heart, suffocated by the world. Sucking the goodness. Life is loud. Anchor in the word. Good soil, understanding and persevering. Not perfect but prepared and maintained. Resistant to wealth and influence. Consistent, not glamorous. Jesus is the sower. He is continually sowing His word in our lives, actively investing in our lives. The good news is, soil can change, obstructions can be removed, hardness broken up. Indoor plants need more care. Jesus message is factual, not judgemental. Persevere, don't dabble. Trust the seed, don't prejudge the soil. Don't let my love grow cold, sow your seed in me again, let us flourish in you again. Be generous, abundant sowers.

5/7 Paul Younger Jn 6:60-69.   Should I stay or should I go?

  The punk record Should I stay or should I go had the B side "Straight to hell" which should be the clue. All parts of the service are components of our worship to God Jn 6:60-69. Peter's response to the question; 5 brief words, "to whom shall we go?" This is after the teaching of eating Jesus flesh and drinking His blood. For Jews, this was extreme doctrine. They did realise the importance and long term significance of it, even if not fully understanding it. Jesus knows this will put people off folowing him, but He reinforces the point. Some people left, unable to accept it. Fairweather friends. They had enjoyed the rebellion, but this was too much. Followers are not disciples. The question was for the disciples to consider, Jesus already knew who they were v67. He knows if they are with Him. Peter spoke first, he understood and knew about Jesus. We must consider this question, "who is Jesus?", do we stay or go. Jesus is the answer, why look for someone else. The Greeks have a word that means 'encompassing everything it represents' e.g. the crown is far mor than the physical head gear. Hagios means chosen and set apart, used by God. The cost is far outweighed by the benefits. There is only 1 right answer to Jesus question.

28/6 Nibin John Ps 139:23,24   Making the Right Choice

  1 search me, 2 test me, 3 lead me. Making the right choice, not the wrong choice. Choice to go to church or not. Sociologists estimate we make 35,000 choices all through the day. God teaches us to live a life worthy of His glory. What choices have some of the people of the Bible made. Genesis, Adam and Eve started by following God. By ch3 v6 it fell apart. They had one boundary in their paradise in total freedom. God wanted to be the source of truth for them. Satan whispered to Eve. She chose to listen to Satan. We also move the boundary lines to suit our situation. We make choices based on our 'wisdom' instead of God's. Beware of little voices. Remind yourself where the lines are. Abraham and Lot had lots of livestock. So much they had to go different ways. Abraham was a peacemaker, so he gave lot the choice of which land to take in Gen 13:8, 10. Lot chose the fertile area to the east. He gradually started let his guard down. He camped facing Sodom. By ch19 he has moved into the city. The leaders sit by the city gate. He became like them. He thought he could be in the fire and not get burned. That small decision, and many other mini-decisions led to his destruction. Sin starts small, with small boundary moves. One small compromise leads to a bigger one. Abraham chose Hebron and built an altar to God. He trusted God to provide, not the land. Lot chose by sight, Abram by faith. Abram shows you can never lose by choosing God. Abram knew not to rush into a decision and wait for God's timing. In Jesus' life, his choices were always surrendered to the Father. Jesus shut the devil down with God's actual Word. Satan attacks our Physical needs, our identity, our ambitions. He causes doubts against the Written and Spoken Word of Truth. Don't argue with devil from your own wisdom. Jesus didn't take the short cut. Jesus won by accepting God's timing, for fulfilment of the promises. Don't doubt who you are. When Jesus was in the garden he suffered physical pain. Not my will; obedience over comfort. God's will is more important and His love for people is great. Choose to please God and bring glory to him.

21/6 Andrea Mill Acts 2:42-   Signs & Strategy

  Acts 2:42- Jesus was still walking on earth, promising power, tells them to wait for 10 days. Wind and fire come. Peter preached and declared the fulfilment of Joel's prophecy. 3,000 believe. A lot of young lives to care for. Devote to teaching, fellowship...more were added daily. Benefits and challenges of living together. Keys apostles teaching, fellowship, communion and prayer. We need teaching to learn and grow. They were intentional. Those who had been with Jesus modelled the lifestyle. Watch, then do. They were filled with awe. We spend time with Jesus and have something to share. Signs and wonders will follow. Prayer was a regular feature for them. Only do or say what God gives you. That was Jesus strategy. God wants us to share everything with Him. He can meet all our needs. Jesus death and resurrection are fundamental to our faith and our forgiveness. Ongoing confession and thankfulness keep us close. Life in community. Working and playing together. New believers come with baggage. Walk together, teach grace. We are part of a big global family. Encourage, be hospitable, no one has a monopoly of a gift. Prayer and practical help. Heb 10:24-25. People are desperate for identity and belonging and love. Ps 133

14/6 Mark MacLeod Ps 102:1-17, Heb 4:14-16.   The spirituality of the Psalms..

  At niece's wedding in Lewis, the quality of Psalm singing ws amazing. Psalms.102:1-17, Heb 4:14-16. Walter Bruggemann: 3 categories of Psalms - orientation, disorientation, reorientation. Ps 104 begins and ends with praise with no struggle. Very few of type 2 beginning and end with pain, sorrow and suffering, no change e.g. Ps 74. Type 3 begins with pain ends with restoration. E.g. Ps 13, 102. The catalyst it pivots on is God's love and salvation. The spirituality of the Psalms. Col 3:16 let the message dwell, sing Psalms hymns and spiritual songs. The church is told to teach using Psalms and songs. How do we deal with matters that are too painful, incongruous or too close to home? When we have raw feelings and are uncomfortable, what do we do? To avoid them is to isolate ourselves from each other and God. The power of prayer lies in pouring out our prayer to God. He feels it too. He knows sweating blood, abandonment, acute hunger, thirst, loneliness, everything. Heb 4:15 AV God is touched, NIV sympathy. King Frederick experiment children who received no touch and no verbal communication died. 1 Jn 4:10 we love because he first loved us. Mk 5:31 Jesus asked who touched me? We cannot survive without love and touch. We receive it first. The dessert owls, according to Leviticus, were unclean, untouchable. Their cylindrical eyes resulted in tunnel vision with poor peripheral sight. Very sensitive to light. Good night vision. Are we missing something close and obvious. Open your eyes, lift your head, swivel your neck! Pivot v12 but, you sit forever, despite situations. His light shines v16, He responds v17. Darkness never gets the final word.

7/6 Jamie Mackintosh Lk 10:25-37   Jesus Mission

  So what can I say? So much said against Bible and church. What can we do? Lk 10:25-37. Do likewise v37. What is mission? Do we need it? It is developing disciples. Helping lives at risk. The Church is now 80% African, 50 yrs ago it was 80% European. Mission flows from Jesus incarnation, crucifixion, ascension and Pentecost. Our neighbours are now global. Are we walking on a dangerous road, is there anyone beaten and bloodied. Our journey is on the road where people are bleeding and hurting. People with obligations and responsibilities walk by. The Jericho road exists everywhere. Jesus is asking if we will cross the road. A foreigner steps up. It is a costly inconvenient mission. The poor have nothing left. They are not forgotten. The Samaritan acts, doesn't preach. The typology of the widow's two coins and the child Jesus puts at the centre tells us this is Jesus will: the Samaritan pays the two coins and humbly puts injured the man at the centre. The Samaritans were persecuted. V37 Jesus says Go. Mt 25:44,45 do it for the least: for me. Help those in need, be there for them. What location am I in? What needs done? Let it transform us. It starts when we cross the road. What the church is: mercy and grace. God invites us to rediscover our purpose, standing with, serving others in need. Will you pour out what you have been given? Hear the call. Be salt and light, contest the lies of the world.

31/5 Richard Hobson Mt 8:18-27.   Following Jesus

  Dane Søren Kierkegaard. We have domesticated God. Jesus is the same person that came to earth, he still has the marks. Jesus asks his disciples to do challenging things Mt 8:18-27 gives examples of people following Jesus. He had healed many sick. He wanted to go to the other side of the lake. What were the motives of the enquirer? The animals have safe places to raise their families. Following Jesus is not about staying put. Don't hold onto your earthly security. No safety net. Completely depend on God. Is your real home on earth or in heaven? Dead were normally buried the same day in hot countries. This was an excuse; earthly ambitions can be a hindrance. We need things from Jesus, but we receive them on his terms. If it becomes inconvenient which do we choose. Going to church doesn't imply following Jesus. The cost of following Him can be great. The boat they were in could have a crew of 4 or 5 and 10 passengers. These storms can rise quickly and may be fairly frequent. Storms can be frightening and can make you ill. The boat's side were low and water came in. Jesus was very tired from ministry. The disciples were aware of Jesus miracles. A strange reply. 150 times in Bible, don't fear. A natural human response. Fear is reaction to an immediate present threat. Can result in illness, injury, financial or physical insecurity and discomfort. Sometimes God can cause us to fear. Isaiah fell down before God as dead. John on Patmos. Whatever we are facing, we are not to fear. Jesus questions our lack of faith. Following Jesus can take us to scary places. The workplace can be hostile for Christians. Being a disciple is not easy, but can be glorious. What sort of man is Jesus? Ps 46:1-3 is a terrifying image. Isa 26:3. What we leave behind is nothing in comparison to our gain. There is no reason to be afraid. Jesus is a present help, our Messiah, who gives us His peace. Jesus is our solid rock.

24/5 Jamie Mackintosh Acts 2:1-21   Pentecost

  A mighty rushing wind. The continuing story of the journey from incarnation through crucifixion and triumph: humanity lifted in to the life of God. He became likes us so we can become like Him. At the incarnation God took on Humanity, at Pentecost we take on divine life. He breathes His breath in us. The assension activity. The fire that burns. The word became flesh, we proclaim his word. Not a new theme, just a fulfilment of all that God has been doing. St Basil the great. God's Spirit in his people. Heaven and earth joined in person of Spirit. The mission of the church is begun. The body of Christ. He is present in us all. We are those in who the Spirit dwells and belong to Jesus. We are to go out and tell the good news. Fiery speech. The Kingdom of all believers. Be the hands and feet of Jesus. We become the powerhouse of the daily work of the gospel. The aim is to know Jesus and make him known. A people who know Jesus of Scripture and communicate with him. We are baptised into Father, Son and Spirit. 3000 added that day. They came and were supported and cared for. Sharing bread. Church is beyond buildings. The people are the essential. Maintaining a facility is not our mission. St Basils vision, a fire burning in us. He dwells in us transforming us. Spirit of God, truth, right. We become luminous, grace bearing, life giving, we gain understanding of mystery. We become like God, we participate in his work, as Holy Spirit rests on us. God draws us in. Receive, surrender, go. Jn 20:21,22 His breath. Malcolm Guite poem o-sapientia

17/5 Nibin John Lk 15:11-32   Forgiveness

  Forgiveness and forgiving. Lk 15:11-32 - the lost son. Part of a narrative with two other parables: sheep, coin. Rebellion of the younger son. He took his share and went to a new country. His spent his inheritance. We sometimes take distant steps from God and build a different life. He lost his way. He had no provisions. Feeding pigs is degrading to Jewish people. When you move from God you are degrading yourself and cutting yourself off from him. He realised his error and planned to return. The Father was already waiting for him. He ran out to met the son and welcome him. Not considered a respectable thing to do. V3 the found one brings rejoicing. When we come back to God there is great rejoicing. Check that you are close to God. Mt 19:29 there is blessing for following Jesus, both now and also eternal life, which is more important. During the celebration, the son who wanted to be a slave is given a robe of honour, the ring of family membership and sandals that were not for slaves. A story Jesus told but it was very true to life in those days. The son's heart was far from God before he left home. Peter also moved away from God: he denied Jesus 3 times. He felt he failed, but was also restored by God who was waiting for him. Jn 21:1-19 Jesus was looking for Peter and the other disciples. Peter denied Jesus beside a fire. Jesus was waiting for him by a fire with food and fellowship. A celebration meal marked both reconciliations. The Lords table shows we are one in Christ together. Rev 19:6-9. If you are far from God ask him to reinstate and restore us. He is waiting for you at the place you left Him. Peter went on to see many saved on the day of Pentecost.

10/5 Jill Walker 1 Sam 17   God's Voice

  1 Sam 17 Proclaim Jesus, His voice, our voice. Scottish Parliament elections. Lots of leaflets and voices. Hearing God's voice and raising our voice. God's voice ps 29 thunders across the waters. Ps 18 thunder from heaven. Rev rushing waters. 1 Kg still small voice. Jn 10 Jesus voice known by sheep. Isa 30:21 a voice behind you saying, "this is the way walk in it". We know his voice. He speaks to us through bible, preaching, films, songs. Tune in to God and what He is saying. Are we alert to a change in direction? We need to cut out the background noise all around us. Concentrate and be attentive to His voice. Tune in through time alone, by focusing on his presence. Cupar group praising and praying, alive. Balance waiting and moving forward, going out. Hearing God's voice is important, before speaking out and acting on the word. There are times to remain silent and times to speak out, times to sleep on it. We have a wealth of God-stuff in us to share. God will speak and work through us. Our voice can bring life and put people on the right path. David challenged Goliath 1 Sam 17:32. Spies in promised land, Joshua and Caleb brought a true report. We need to challenge the negative narrative around us. Ps 37 godly counsel. Ps 81 open your mouth, God will fill it. The church sometimes loses its voice. The voice that can release and break strongholds. It can be a battle. We can release words that bring victory and success. Wisdom can cause a ripple effect. A testimony or declaration can bring something positive. Intercession echoes round God's heavenly chambers. We can bind the evil one. Voices can be weapons. Speak love, truth and compassion. Trust Jesus for words in season, at just the right time. Mona in Hebden, Hull, made notes of words for people received in prayer times. Bring encouragement. Isa God's word doesn't return void. Jesus voice leads us to life, truth, grace.

3/5 Paul Younger Col 2:6,7   Becoming Christian

  Col 2:6,7 today there are many programs to help you reach your goal. E.g. AA. has a 12 step plan. This passage is a 5 step plan to live as a Christian.

1. Old Chinese proverb. A 1000 mile journey starts with 1 step. For a Christian, the beginning is Conversion. Receive Christ as Lord. We switch from a set of beliefs to the Christian way. 1970's gas conversion to natural gas. Not enough to just accept Jesus as saviour. He is Lord of our lives for every moment we exist. No step, no journey.
2. Take another step on the journey to Continue to live in Jesus. We move through our lives making choices, that affect our progress. They influence our final destination. We may get lost along the way. One wrong turn can lead to another. We can't fool God.
3. Construction, rooted and built up. Tower of Pisa is famous because it is faulty, which happened very early in the 200 year building process. Take care of every step of how you build your life. All building projects take time. We are still 'becoming' Christians. It is lifelong.
4. Confirmation to the beliefs of the church family. Reps = repeated exercises to develop and strengthen muscles Do good things again and again to grow your faith and be able to make good decisions.
5. Coda. Thankfulness to bring the step to its conclusion. e.g. Layla, the last piano coda. Not just an afterthought. Paul urges believers to show gratitude. Overflow with thankfulness. Right from the start, Jesus has done more for us than we can image. Live out your gratitude.

26/4 Jerin George Gen 6,7,8. 8:1   God's Protection & Purpose

  Alan Edin City Mission. God puts people in our lives for a purpose. Gen 8:1 God remembered. Did God forget Noah? He never forgets us. Gen 6,7 sates twice that Noah did all God commanded. 6:8 details for the ark. Do we modify the instructions God gives? Noah was obedient. He gathered the material, people were curious. His family must also have had questions. Noah endured the jibes. We must do what we are told. We wonder: was it only me who heard the voice of God. Many times we sow seeds, some mock, some listen. Gen 7:4 the rain came and everything outside the ark drowned. We don't always anticipate the seasons in our lives. God takes us through situations in our lives for a purpose, particularly unstable circumstances. God looked after Noah and family and animals. Pray for your family even if they are a challenge for you. God will protect them. The ark rested. God will bring rest to us. The waters will subside. 7:16 they all went in, God shut the door. We tell God when we have had enough of things. We try to get out of the situation. We must wait till God tells us to go. Remain in the ark for God's sign, even if you have doubts and questions. HS tells us: remain in the ark, for safety, even when it is uncomfortable. God remembers each of us. Thank God for the season of uncertainty. Pray for those around you who don't understand. Don't leave the purpose.

19/4 Jamie Mackintosh Lk 24:13-35   Hope Restored

  Lk 24:13-35 Christ: humanity and divinity. St Athanasius. New creation from within. The incarnation, God refuses to abandon his creation. Jesus stooped down to lift us up. Are we slipping back down. Jesus heals the world. His victory over sin is permanent. Our knowledge of God is restored. The Word who walks with us, restoring us. 1. Road of confusion and collapse. They are leaving Jerusalem and hope. We lapse into confusion. We are unable to recognise Christ walking with us. We wonder where God is? It is us who are absent from God. Despair is theological not psychological. 2. The stranger draws near and walks with them. He teaches them. He listens to their grief before teaching them. He recreates their hope. God comes in surprising and hidden ways. He reconfigures their expectations. Take comfort, Jesus is with us. 3 Scripture, the Word that interprets the word. Only He opens the window to the heart of God. He renews their minds to accept the message. Revelation of Jesus and hiw He is the climax to the story. 4 The breaking of bread. Living Jesus is with them. His presence remains with us. A moment of recognition through the familiar. God wants to be known. Restoration becomes mission. He encourages them to go. A divine commission. Revelation of Jesus propels us out. We participate in his mission. Disciples return ,not to report, to participate. God continues the work of incarnation. We are gathered by Christ into His community and sacraments. We are like the disciples on that road. His presence invites us to be restored and involved. What do we need to recognise and believe Jesus. Accept Jesus with every beat of your heart and fibre of your being. We are unshackled. Not just once, or for all in the past. Always.

12/4 Harry Sprange Jn 2:12   God's Glory

  Jn 2:12 more background of events leading up to Palm Sunday. Jesus is the new temple; we are the new temple. Zeal for your house. Ps69:9 David, a distress song. Even when sick we should seek to glorify God. Scripture is inspired and true. Job, Eliphaz talks nonsense. Bus swerves at junction for no reason. Four observers. Only 1 can see the cyclists stuck in tram lines. Don't worry about incidental details. How did entry to Jerusalem happen at start of Jesus ministry. God was angry. The sound of the whip was used to scare the animals. Ezekiel's visions, then prophecy to nations. 28 times nation will know i am the Lord. God was concerned about his reputation. Moses comes down from mountain. God tells Moses to move aside so he can destroy people. God hates when things stop people from hearing about him. House of prayer, where people can come and talk to God. Israel had to be distinct to show the nations who He is. What Israel does is important. 1 Sam 26, David collects tons of silver and gold for temple. God wants to fill the earth with his glory. The whole earth Num 14:21. Ps 72:19. Isa 6:3. Hab 2:14 waters cover the sea. Ps 85: glory dwell. Name to be known Isa 40:3,5. Every valley. Revealed to all mankind. Intercessors: govt and other oppression. Man must not take place of God. Don't come to church to hear preacher/band/ choir/ fellowship/ doughnuts. Jn 17 you would not repent. Judah led all tribes praise. Dan followed all tribes, Gods last resort, judgement. 2 cor Jesus died for all. Eph 1:12 praise of his glory. God gets angry when people are stopped coming to him. Keep a simple relationship with Jesus. Constantine turned it into religion. Greek turned it into a philosophy. British turned it into an empire. Recently we have turned it into a business. Don't get distracted from task in hand.

5/4 Nibin John Mk 4:35-41   Changed Lives

  Easter day still changing lives around world today. Mk 16:6-7. Gethsemane disciples fell asleep while He prayed. He was innocent but the people wanted rid of him. During crucifixion many things happened. 3 hrs darkness, earthquake. Jesus is the passover lamb of Exodus. He gave himself for us. Early on first day, women went to tomb. 1 Victory over death 1 cor death where is victory, sting? Jesus rose first. 2. Curtain torn in half from top to bottom. Barrier between men and God was removed. People can now approach God's presence. Jesus went to heaven and sits as our high priest. When he returns he will be our king. 3. Jesus , son of God, came to save Jews and Gentiles. Mt 17:22-23. Jesus was betrayed as prophesied and on 3rd day rose again. He came back to life. The Pharisees knew this and went to Herod. All Jesus claimed came true. The empty tomb is proof. Jesus didn't deceive. He keeps his promises. 4. 5 lives radically changed. Mary Magdalene, grief turned to a mission, Peter full of shame lk 24:33,34, Jesus appeared to him first and appointed as leader of church, forgiven and restored. The travellers in despair, trying to go back to normal life. Jesus stirred their hearts and they began to witness. Thomas, one week after. His doubts were removed when he saw the evidence. James didn't believe Jesus was messiah Jn7 :5 1 cor 15:7 Jesus appeared to James, who became a spiritual leader. Their lives were changed. Let your life be changed and transformed, take your place in the body of Christ the church.

29/3 Richard Allison Lk 19:29-44   Jesus Mission

  The events of Palm Sunday are so important all gospels include them. Lk has an important detail. Jesus wept. 19:29-44. Jesus goes to Jerusalem for the first time publicly. A large crowd of Pilgrims joined him on the way to the festival. Rejoice greatly, King gentle and lowly, on a donkey. He is the prophesied one. Things happen the way he said. The crowd saw some of the significance of Jesus coming. The shouted loudly for their King. The palm branches and cloaks are a sign of honour, like a red carpet. It was time for these things to be known. The Pharisees tried to stop the rejoicing. Creation itself glorifies God. Ps 19. Our praise is also imperfect, but Jesus accepts it. We are meant to do this. When they arrived. Mt whole city in uproar. It was seismic. This is Jesus rightful place. They were positive to Him now; that was too change. Wept = uncontainable outward grieving. They reject the one who will bring them peace. Jesus attitude surprising. We should also weep for the lost. David Wilkerson was the only one who wept for the young men convicted of murder. If only they had made different choices. God heart is for compassion not punishment, hope not reject. Why will Jerusalem reject Him. Not just the opposition from the Pharisees. John whole world goes after Him. Jesus opponents knew people accepted Him as a prophet. The public also turned against Him. Maybe not exactly the same individuals, but the crowd in Jerusalem superficially accepted Him as king. This messiah was not the one they were expecting. A contender for the natural throne. They should have seen the clues. They didn't understand Jesus mission. Jesus was here to deal with greater oppression than Romans: sin. Money changers violated the house of prayer. His teaching was offensive to many. He was doing the work of salvation but they didn't get it. He was a threat to the established church. They hounded Him and influenced people against him. Jerusalem had every chance to recognise Jesus. Their vision was clouded by their misunderstanding of what the messiah was like. They stubbornly refuse to acknowledge Him and accept his correction. The Romans did horrific things to the Jews. They received violence for the wickedness they did. Jesus recognised, but misunderstood. Their vision for Jesus was too limited. Their stubborness prevented them from seeing the grace He was bringing. We all have a bias and stubborn wills. Don't look for God on your terms. Jesus was motivated to complete His mission.

22/3 Paul Younger Mt 4:18-22   God's Timing

  Rom 5:6-8 time matters. God's timing is right. We are always dealing with changes. Mornings have a routine. The secret of good comedy is timing. We have tools to keep time. Watches and calendars. They fill up quite quickly. Language has many time related words and phrases. There are times to do the right thing at the right time. God knows when timing really matters. He is aware of what we go through. Psalmist 1000 years to God. We don't have to wait 1000 years for His answer. God planned the beginning of time, Jesus birth, death and resurrection. God is providing for his creation all the time. Pointillism God sees the big picture and the detail. There are times when we want God to do something, but He doesn't. God's timing is always perfect. Saving people's lives is more critical to God than preparing a complex meal. He is not obliged to stick to anyone's schedule other than his own. We dare to tell Him He is not getting it right. He knows what we need better than we know. He saved us when we couldn't and greatly in need. Lk 19 seek and save lost. We don't like to be told we are sinners in need of salvation. He knows what we need. His timing and action was right. We could step in and do what we think the right thing is. Good luck with that.

15/3 Michael Palmer 1 Tim 2:1-10   Big Prayer

  Prayers like incense rising (Into your courts we come). God hears our prayers; be encouraged, have faith. Prayer beyond petition for ourselves. Our prayer can cease wars and turn our nation around. God is against injustice and will answer prayers for justice. Gran prays non stop. It's her ministry. Nothing happens without prayer. Jer 29:7 a prayer for shalom. When the city prospers we prosper. 1 Tim 2:1-10 pray for shalom for national leaders. This leads to people being saved. Living for Jesus, devoted to God leads others to salvation. God desires this. Men are to pray, women likewise are to pray and focusing on good deeds not outward appearance and jewelry. Jesus instructs us to pray His will to happen here on earth. We rule on earth to bring God's reign on earth. It's not fully here yet. We are to bring it about. Ezek was tol God is waiting for someone to intercede. God looks for people to pray. Isa 9:6,7 Government on shoulder of messiah. He is the head, we are the body of Christ. We have authority in Jesus to extend His peace, through prayer. We have authority to change things. Aaronic Numbers 6:24-26 the Lord bless you. So that people come to God v27. 1 Pet 2:9 proclaim Good News to the world as priests of God. Church has authority to change things, breaking generational curses. Massive changes can come from prayer. Hezekiah 18 is prayer the led to Sennacherib’s downfall, 2 King 18. Jehoshaphat defeats Moab and Ammon, 2 Chron 20. Keep your eyes on God. If all churches pray against war in Iran God will end it. Seek God for the victory. Prayer at a national level will change its destiny. Identificational Prayer. Priest representing people. Respond to God, especially to His promises. Use God's word in prayer. No weapon formed against us will prevail. Bring God's word back to Him. Find out God's will. Pray for people of peace to rise up. Trust God with the result. Agree on God's will. People roamed, they cried out to God. Results may not come immediately, keep praying for God's timing. The journey to the Promised land lasted 2yrs, then another 40yrs. Fighting spiritual rulers brings God's will. The battle must be won in the spiritual realm, before the physical is changed. Acts 12 the whole church prayed, the disciples were releasd from prison. Rees Howells an intercessor Click ↠ here to download. WW 2 battles were won in prayer. Dunkirk, battle of Britain. Prevailing prayer. Don't give up or let go till victory comes. Faith, Heb 11, is an assurance of things. Ex 27:8-17 the banner signals victory. Raising hands is an act of prayer. Informed prayer 1 Sam 55. 2 Sam 19, Justice came to evil Nabal. Ask God at every stage: the strategy might change. We rely on God's will and his character to help us see the answer. Samuel, Joel, perhaps He will have mercy. God is righteous, He wants to be known, He is for peace. Dan prays 2:20-23 for wisdom and mercy. God sets kings up, He brings them down. He can use good and bad to bring it about. 2 Chron 7:14 if my people humble themselves and pray and seek my face... Scotland can change. Lewis revival.

8/3 Jacob Houck Mk 10:17-31   Service

  There are two forms service: giving your possessions and giving yourself. Mk 10:17-31, Lk 18 describes the young man as really rich and a well known public figure. Possibly a Pharisee? We can never be good enough. He doesn't want to lack anything, he desires greatness and to be perfect. Not just salvation. 1 Cor 3:15. Give up earthly possessions to gain heavenly treasure. Gospel demands a radical life. Phil 2 look to interest of others. Jesus humbled himself for the ultimate sacrifice and service. To gain treasure you have to lose it. Peter claims they gave up their homes. This is not what saves us. To be servants look after others God will look after us. Not salvation, greatness. Let God serve and save us first. 1 get saved 2. Mt 20:1 follows the account of the rich ruler. The workers all got the same wages, as agreed. Numbers 31: spoil 50-50 split army and those left behind. 1 Sam 30: David rescues the wives. Jesus is not doing anything new. The master is not unfair. They all get a decent pay. Salvation is freely given to those who have done little and those who do much. Accept God's invitation, Salvation is equal for all. We are called to different service, watching the bags or fighting. We need to be faithful in our work. We all must contribute. We couldn't do it without you. The smallest task is just as important. God is generous and he notices the little things we do. We serve the body, the Church.

1/3 Richard Hobson Lk 4:16-27, Isa 61   Good News

  Isa 53 coming messiah. Good News. Lk 4:16-27 Holy Spirit in Jesus' life at significant times. At conception, at baptism, after temptation. Synagogue worship, no minister, the manager invited people to share and debate. Could be a bit wild, with heckling. Jesus read the scroll. Isa 61. All eyes were on Jesus. Jesus declared his purpose. He achieves his aim. Anointed, painted. He can only do all this in the power of HS. Isa 61. Lots of actions. Proclaim, recover, set free. Proclaim and liberate. Things were not how they should be. Much ignorance and bondage. He was concerned for poor and captives, material and spiritual. Prov 14:31 contempt for poor, 17:19. Welfare, charity and bringing needy into community. Both required. Restoration must be material and spiritual. Rev 22 new heaven and earth, former past. No poor people in heaven. God's heart is for poor. Isa 1:16-17 seek justice, help widows. Isa 58:6 fast, break yokes, help needy. Amos, Isa 5 righteousness like a stream. Jesus declared God's heart. The year of his favour, Jubilee. Debts cancelled, slaves set free. This has fizzled out. Jesus reminds them of what God wants. No longer about rules and regulations. Jesus is going to make this happen. Lk 4:22 is great news. How can we reject the cross that achieved this. V22 the debate starts. They want evidence. V25 Elijah only came to Zerapeth. They ganged up on him. They were angry that God had mercy on Gentiles. Acts, devoted to teaching and breaking bread. Community was growing, Jesus ministry continues. Isa 63 and 61 are linked. It's difficult. New heaven and earth is coming.

22/2 Jamie Mackintosh Gen 45:1-11,15   St Anselm of Canterbury: Prayer.

  Desert Fathers, Jesus in the wilderness. Mt 4:1-11. 1st wk Lent. A forward looking pause. Slow down. Last year has been a challenge for many. All part of God's purpose. Jesus overcome the challenges he faced. We fall short, we are mentally and physically weak. We look to Jesus' words and life. We seek to know Jesus, He knows us and understands us. A kernel of belief is all you need. Joy peace and love of Christ for eternity. Teach my heart where and how to find you. Teach me to seek you, show yourself to me. A sentence journey from dust to glory. The repair manual. God won't let his creation fall away. 2 conquest of death. 3 God became human that we might become righteous. Seek living water. Listen to the still small voice. Desire the right things. Jesus knows hunger. Jesus uses Scripture to get the victory. We are remade in Christ. Align yourself to Him. 4. How does the dessert help us in 21st C. We are portraits of the King. Use tools of prayer, Word, devotion. 5. The promise, hope. Never alone in the desert. Jesus gave life not rules. His footprints go ahead of us. Our hope for eternity helps us to trust. Seek God, allow yourself to be found by him. Align your desire and thirst with Him. The original portrait. God is drawing us to himself. Jer 18:6 the potter. There is no short cut. Satan plays on our preconceptions. Jesus is the loving son of the Father. God is profoundly present in our weaknesses. Find the real God, who lives in us. Jesus uses his humanity to sanctify us. He promises to love us. God walked out of the desert, he walked out of the tomb. He knows and understands us. In our faith, no matter how weak, truly believe. His purpose is to bring us to an eternity of joy.

15/2 Iain Sutherland Ps 19:1-14   Reconnecting

  Iain. Reconnecting with friends and family. Ps 19:1-14. 2 books of God. All the elements of creation speak to us. David a faithful shepherd singing praise to God. The monks sang and memorised the Psalms. David private worship has become a universal favourite. Aiden trained Hilda to set up a monastery, in Whitby. Caedmon died 670 a nowhere, not a singer. A dream a visitor asked him to sing. When he woke he the gift of song. First ever poet. JRR Tolkien got middle earth from Caedmon's poem from an angel. Hilda discipled Caedmon. All human emotions are in the Psalms. Listen for the whispers. Sparrows are known by and cared for by God. Samuel and Eli. Spiritual accompaniment, awareness of how God is speaking. Slow down, don't get caught up in the world. Ignatian, sitting looking at God looking at me. Become more sensitive and Spirit centred. Not just for preachers v14. Let God speak through natural and supernatural. God is so close, He whispers. 1 Kg 19, the still small voice, invitation more than command. Know God loves you.

1/2 Harry Sprange Mt 27:57-61   Holiness

  1 month ago woken in night, speak about exile. New teaching on communion. Judgement in OT in HG. Understanding the exile. 2 separate events 800 yrs apart Exodus. The beginning is straight forward, four events from BC 605 1st invasion, Daniel taken. 597 further destruction of Jerusalem. 586 king Nebuchadnezzar came back for more and trashed the temple. 2 Kgs 24, Jer 52. The problem is how they got back to their land, 4 waves. 1 Ezra 1-4 in 538BC. 520BC rebuilding the temple. Hag. 458BC re-establish the law. 445BC Nehemiah rebuilds the city. Ezra rebuilt the temple and started worship. Nehemiah rebuilt city and community. Neh 13:1 a sad tale, all the problems return. Ch 8 day of repentance. Storeroom in temple full of other people's junk. Temple servants had gone to other jobs as no worship happening. Tithes support for ministry. Offerings to support people. Ex 23 a day off for slaves and animals. Ex 31 this is God's witness to the world. Jews marrying pagans. Children without heritage. God chose Jews to make himself known to the world. We need to stand against political correctness. Not all religions deserve respect. Holiness is not achieved by not washing or working. Final warning. The Jews did not learn. Ez 10 got rid of pagan wives. Neh has to repeat this ch 10. Holiness doesn't come through legislation. God puts in us what he requires. He forgives and forgets our sin.

18/1 Mark MacLeod Joel 2:25-29, Lk 2:36-40   Women Prophets

  It can be difficult to reconcile some parts of the Bible. Paul seemingly restricted women in ministry, but declares "nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus", Gal 3:28. 2 Cor 6:18, Paul puts words in God's mouth, since there is no mention of daughters in 2 Sam 7:14. Why did God choose Anna to be a prophet? How did Jews respond to Anna's message? There are some clues in a record from 6th Century BC. Judith's story starts with 7 chapters of people coming to destroy the city and the temple. Many believed Nebuchadnezer to be the king of universe. Judith was a widow. She fasted and prayed regularly. She speaks against surrendering the city, but urges them to wait for salvation that comes from God. Judith makes her own plan. She changes her widows attire for extravagant, provocative clothes and jewellery. She was captured, but she tricked them. She brought liberty to the people of Israel. God our God is still with us. Emmanuel, that Anna had come to behold. There was a victory shout. Priest called her blessed. She led the women in a dance. No one spread terror in her lifetime and for years after. Israel's enemies fear her. Her standing is equal with Abraham. The 'prophetic' speaks to God about man and to man about God. Anna was also devoted to God. Let us wait for the salvation that comes from God. V38 they were waiting for salvation from God. A vulnerable child, not a beguiling women or army commander was the Saviour. Anna sees what is happening and praises and rejoices. Before Judith died, she set her slave girl free. Jesus offers freedom for sons and daughters, by his birth, life, death and resurrection. The great challenge for us: do we discriminate against these women. Where are the women who will declare God's greatness and salvation? God uses the weak and the humble to fulfill his purposes. Ps 68:11 "those" is feminine and plural, they are women in this mighty throng. Be courageous and daring.

11/1 Jamie Mackintosh Isa 42:1-9, Mt 3:13-17   Perfect Light

  From the Lectionary Isa 42:1-9, Mt 3:13-17. Matthew records that Jesus the man received the Holy Spirit, as Isaiah foretold. The perfect light of Christ is the light for the gentiles v6. The whole story from Advent through Epiphany to the Ascension shows the purpose of Jesus. Shepherds were witnesses to the light. Darkness can be physical or emotional. It can be around us and within us. Isa gives us hope. The light has come. We face our troubles with the light of Christ. Death will not overcome. He makes us lights in the darkness. We must shine and bring hope to others, Mt 5:16. Love, good works and prayers bring hope. This is a world changing message. God knows you, saves you loves you. Baptism is the start of Jesus mission on earth. Jesus the man conquered them all. Our best intentions to change fall short. Slow change is more sustainable, but we need change now. Pray for world and local leaders. It's difficult to move people to behave differently. The timeless truth is God never changes. His light is not overcome. His promise is eternal. Have hope, take heart. Jesus in your life overcomes the darkness. His church is His body. Christ is ever present. Is it change or justice we seek? Israel had to wait for God. Jesus fulfils Isaiah's prophecy. He will bring justice. Across the whole church, aim to be Christ centred: His light guiding us. Act together in Christ. Give him the glory.