Zetland Park Methodist Church Pastoral Letters
November 2013
"Your Will Be Done"
My family often tease me about my fascination with World War II films which is evidenced by the number of DVD's in my 'bit' of our library.. From the Great Escape to the Dam Busters, the Guns of Navarone to the Saving of Private Ryan, the Battle of Britain through to documentaries about the cracking of Enigma at Bletchley Park and many, many more, they all interest me and inspired me. Though thankfully they don't depict all the gory details of the war, they do portray people showing extreme bravery, dedicated commitment, comradeship and teamwork, and the willingness to offer oneself, sometimes sacrificially, for the cause. All of them seem to show, in one way or another, how tribulation and a being focussed on a cause bigger than ourselves can bring out the very best in so many people.
On Remembrance Sunday we remember the lives laid down in the cause of justice and freedom, and it is right we should recognise all the characteristics and demands of such service to one's country. And, of course, the close comradeship, the sense of duty and commitment, the unquestioning obedience to superiors, the bravery and dedication to the cause, has continued to be shown by new generations in the Forces over the years since, through the various campaigns and peace-keeping activities. And it is beholden upon us to show our appreciation for this service to country and for justice and freedom in the world - to mark the giving of their lives for our futures.
As I started writing out the first batch of Membership Cards for this year I was struct again by the wording on them, speaking of the commitments and duties of membership, " A member will .... ," but I'll leave it with you to read it through when you receive yours. But it reminded me of the Covenant Prayer,
"Your will, not mine, be done in all things,wherever you may place me,
in all that I do and in all that I may endure;
when there is work for me and when there is none;
when I am troubled and when I am at peace.
Your will be done
when I am valued and when I am disregarded;
when I find fulfilment and when it is lacking;
when I have all things and when I have nothing.
I willingly offer all I have and am to serve you, as and where you choose."
There is nothing here about privileges and benefits, rights and gains! Just about commitment and dedication, obedience and bravery, trust and faith, self-sacrifice and focus upon the cause of God!
As we remember those who gave their all for the cause of freedom and justice, may we be inspired by them and the example of our Saviour Jesus Christ to truly offer our all for God's cause of Love.