Storm Ciara understandably discouraged some from coming this morning with high winds battering most of the country so our theme ‘Be Bold, Be Strong’ seemed appropriate.

NOTICES

The Men’s Group are meeting on Thursday (13th) this week at 7pm to see whether a change of day makes it easier for people. All are very welcome.

Reminder to all Board & Session that there will be a review of our Local Church Review document on Tuesday 18th February from 7pm. All are encouraged to come and contribute.

For any trustees (Board & Session) who are unable to access the Church of Scotland Data Protection podcast (required viewing), are invited to the manse on either 25th or 28th February. Please let the minister know if you are planning to attend (tea/coffee/biscuits will be provided). Any trustee who hasn’t received an email from Sarah in the last few days about Data Protection, please check your Junk/Spam folders.

BE BOLD, BE STRONG

This morning’s reading was from Acts Chapter 4: 1-31 and continued from last week’s healing miracle. While Peter and John were still addressing the crowds, they were arrested for performing an act of healing and attributing it to Jesus Christ. They spent the night in jail and were brought before the Sanhedrin (the Jewish religious court) and asked to explain their actions. While Peter had previously been cowardly and denied his relationship with Jesus, this time he was bold in his reply adding personal conviction to his testimony. Initially they were released but forbidden to continue preaching but they refused. They returned to the crowds and together they prayed for guidance. “After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly.”

We wondered whether we would be as strong in proclaiming our faith or whether we too are waiting for God’s spirit to come and turn our lives upside-down. We must remember that God sometimes reveals himself in quiet unassuming ways – a still small voice – and should always remain vigilant, ready and willing to respond to God’s call.