May at King’s Church
On the last day of the feast, the great day, Jesus stood up and cried out, “If anyone thirsts, let him come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, ‘Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.’” Now this he said about the Spirit, whom those who believed in him were to receive, for as yet the Spirit had not been given, because Jesus was not yet glorified.
What an invitation Jesus gave! Simply put, his promise was that anyone who would thirst, believe and receive would experience the life of the Holy Spirit. This is our theme for May, a month that includes Pentecost Sunday as we remember the day on which the church was birthed by the power of the Holy Spirit. I am expectant that as we position ourselves with both expectancy and humility we will step into a new season of being disciples who are refreshed and empowered by the Holy Spirit. So, if you are ‘anyone’, you’re thirsty for more of God, you believe in Jesus’ accomplishments and promises then be ready to receive!
Of course, disciples who look ‘up’ and receive power (Acts 1:8) will inevitably reach ‘out’ to a lost and hurting world. As the nation and world watch the coronation of King Charles III, we’re encouraging everyone to celebrate and eat with neighbours. As such, there will be no church services on Sun 7th May and instead an opportunity to love, serve and see what opportunities God opens up.
Similarly, our Life Groups, great contexts for the ‘up’ and ‘in’, will also focus on reaching out this summer. We’ll use May to pray and receive the Spirit and then look to engage in a series of opportunities, whether it be BBQs or running a marriage or parenting course. I’m praying that we will mature as disciples of Jesus and make new ones as we go!
Healthy ‘up’, ‘in’ and ‘out’ disciples will help others to be the same and look to take a lead in doing so. The New Ground Academy will be taking applications this month for the 2023-25 intake so if you are yet to consider it please do so!
Finally, one more date for your diary: Sun 4th June. It’ll be a ‘Together Sunday’ and we’ll be holding a Thanksgiving service for the building (refurbishment almost completed!) in the morning and a Family Fun Day in the afternoon which we’re inviting the local community.
Much love in Christ,
Philip