+ In the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. Amen The Greeting: Grace, mercy and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ be with you and also with you. Prayer of Preparation: Almighty God, to whom all hearts are open, all desires known, and from whom no secrets are hidden: cleanse the thoughts of our hearts by the inspiration of your Holy Spirit that we may perfectly love you and worthily magnify your holy name; through Christ our lord. Amen. The Gloria: Glory to God in the highest, and peace to his people on earth. Lord God, heavenly King, almighty God and Father, we worship you, we give you thanks, we praise you for your glory. Lord Jesus Christ, only Son of the father, Lord God, Lamb of God, you take away the sin of the world: have mercy on us; you are seated at the right hand of the Father: receive our prayer. For you alone are the Holy One, you alone are the Lord, you alone are the Most High, Jesus Christ, with the Holy Spirit, in the glory of God, the Father. Amen The Collect – 2nd Sunday before Lent Almighty God, you have created the heavens and the earth and made us in your own image: teach us to discern your hand in all your works and your likeness in all your children; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit reigns supreme over all things, now and for ever. Amen Readings: Genesis 1:1 – 2:3 1 In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. 2 Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters. 3 And God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light. 4 God saw that the light was good, and he separated the light from the darkness. 5 God called the light “day,” and the darkness he called “night.” And there was evening, and there was morning—the first day. 6 And God said, “Let there be a vault between the waters to separate water from water.” 7 So God made the vault and separated the water under the vault from the water above it. And it was so. 8 God called the vault “sky.” And there was evening, and there was morning—the second day. 9 And God said, “Let the water under the sky be gathered to one place, and let dry ground appear.” And it was so. 10 God called the dry ground “land,” and the gathered waters he called “seas.” And God saw that it was good. 11 Then God said, “Let the land produce vegetation: seed-bearing plants and trees on the land that bear fruit with seed in it, according to their various kinds.” And it was so. 12 The land produced vegetation: plants bearing seed according to their kinds and trees bearing fruit with seed in it according to their kinds. And God saw that it was good. 13 And there was evening, and there was morning—the third day. 14 And God said, “Let there be lights in the vault of the sky to separate the day from the night, and let them serve as signs to mark sacred times, and days and years, 15 and let them be lights in the vault of the sky to give light on the earth.” And it was so. 16 God made two great lights—the greater light to govern the day and the lesser light to govern the night. He also made the stars. 17 God set them in the vault of the sky to give light on the earth, 18 to govern the day and the night, and to separate light from darkness. And God saw that it was good. 19 And there was evening, and there was morning—the fourth day. 20 And God said, “Let the water teem with living creatures, and let birds fly above the earth across the vault of the sky.” 21 So God created the great creatures of the sea and every living thing with which the water teems and that moves about in it, according to their kinds, and every winged bird according to its kind. And God saw that it was good. 22 God blessed them and said, “Be fruitful and increase in number and fill the water in the seas, and let the birds increase on the earth.” 23 And there was evening, and there was morning—the fifth day. 24 And God said, “Let the land produce living creatures according to their kinds: the livestock, the creatures that move along the ground, and the wild animals, each according to its kind.” And it was so. 25 God made the wild animals according to their kinds, the livestock according to their kinds, and all the creatures that move along the ground according to their kinds. And God saw that it was good. 26 Then God said, “Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals, and over all the creatures that move along the ground.” 27 So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. 28 God blessed them and said to them, “Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky and over every living creature that moves on the ground.” 29 Then God said, “I give you every seed-bearing plant on the face of the whole earth and every tree that has fruit with seed in it. They will be yours for food. 30 And to all the beasts of the earth and all the birds in the sky and all the creatures that move along the ground—everything that has the breath of life in it—I give every green plant for food.” And it was so. 31 God saw all that he had made, and it was very good. And there was evening, and there was morning—the sixth day. 2 Thus the heavens and the earth were completed in all their vast array. 2 By the seventh day God had finished the work he had been doing; so on the seventh day he rested from all his work. 3 Then God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it he rested from all the work of creating that he had done. Romans 8: 18-25 18 I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us. 19 For the creation waits in eager expectation for the children of God to be revealed. 20 For the creation was subjected to frustration, not by its own choice, but by the will of the one who subjected it, in hope 21 that the creation itself will be liberated from its bondage to decay and brought into the freedom and glory of the children of God. 22 We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time. 23 Not only so, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption to sonship, the redemption of our bodies. 24 For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what they already have? 25 But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently. Matthew 6: 25-34 25 “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? 26 Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? 27 Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life? 28 “And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labour or spin. 29 Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendour was dressed like one of these. 30 If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you—you of little faith? 31 So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ 32 For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. Homily: Something I have been doing with some of the time I have now since leaving you all has been an afternoon a week art class. Now my history with art has been quite difficult. I can remember the art teacher at secondary school telling my mother on parents’ evenings that I made dogs’ dinners. Probably because of such humiliations as that I gave up art as a subject at the earliest opportunity. The fact was, however, that I did not dislike the subject until that happened. My defence is that I don’t remember being taught how to use paint properly. I can remember painting a picture and thinking: “I will just add a bit of blue there, or a dash of green there.” As the colours merged into one another I painted over what I had done with a different colour and somehow it always came out brown and messy. It’s not changed much either. For the past two weeks we have been learning how to use oil pastils and as I added colours and blended them, I just didn’t know when to stop. Now, the teacher and I have an arrangement that she tells me when it is finished and we rescue whatever the subject is before it goes an all over brown. The creation story we read as our first reading today gives me the same sense of not being able to stop. I was tempted to shorten the reading as it is quite long but then I thought that it’s really important for us to hear the whole story of God creating the world. It has such a poetic form. And as we hear each new day being described we begin to hear how each new aspect whether it be animals and birds or plants is added in to an already beautiful world. After each day, God looks at what he has made and he loves it. He adds colours and dimensions like the perfect artist and then we can almost see him standing back and admiring what he has done. Maybe to put a longer nose on that creature and call it an elephant or to extend that one’s neck and call it a giraffe. Ridiculous in some cases but wonderful too. At the culmination of his creation, God makes something entirely different. He makes mankind and we read that he makes people in his own image. There is something about a human being which reflects God. There is a spark within us all which is God. Then he gives the culmination of his creation a job to do: to look after the earth he made earlier. This week we have seen on the news the devastation caused by an earthquake in Turkey and Syria. The latest estimate is that 21,000 people have been killed. This last summer we saw the hottest temperatures on record in the UK. We know that our seasons are changing and our way of life is damaging the planet. We don’t appear to be doing the job God gave us to do. In our second reading, the writer of Romans says that all of creation is groaning and suffering. It is waiting to be set free from all that human beings are doing to destroy it. The writer urges us to live in hope. Then he explains what this hope is. Hope is something which cannot be seen. If it could be seen, it would not be hope. We are urged to wait with patience until whatever we are waiting and praying for is revealed by God to us. Of course, it is not always easy to be patient. Instead we often behave as it says in St Matthew’s gospel: we worry and try to bring things about before the time appointed by God. This is a very sensible reading actually. It says: “Don’t worry about your life”. There is no point. We cannot do anything about what happened in the past. That is over and done with. We cannot change the future by worrying. There is only ever the present moment. God knows what we need and will give us what we need – note: what we need, not what we want, when it is the right time. In Genesis, God told mankind to look after the earth. In St Matthew’s gospel: Jesus tells us to strive for the Kingdom of God and his righteousness. Matthew is basically saying that our task is to take our minds off ourselves and what we want and concentrate on building up what gives life to our communities and our friends and neighbours. Last week, our gospel reading was about being salt and light in the world. We are here to provide a bit of seasoning when the world is bland, and shine a light in the dark corners of a world which finds evil and living only for yourself attractive. Jesus spent his time with sinners. Then he told his followers to do the same as he did. We have a responsibility for all the areas of our created world. That passage about salt and light is very striking when you read it in the Message translation of the Bible. It says: “Let me tell you why you are here. You are here to be salt-seasoning that brings out the God-flavours of this earth. ….. Here’s another way to put it. You are here to be light, bringing out the God-colours in the world. God is not a secret to be kept.” (Matthew 5: 13-14). When we are salt and light, we bring hope to our friends and those around us. If we begin to live as though we have hope in who we are as children of God, others will notice how we live our lives and will begin to live in the same way. That song which goes: “This little light of mine, I’m going to let it shine” talks about the effects of each person lighting one tiny candle. As the number of lights grows, the brightness spreads and we can see more and we trip up less. The New Testament, particularly Paul’s epistles gives us lists of the character traits we should build on if we wish to follow Christ. Paul also gives us lists of those sins that will only bring darkness both to ourselves and others. As we grow in the faith, we will seek to bring more hope and life to others and show them more of God’s image within us. Intercessions: With confidence and trust, let us pray to the Father. For the one holy and apostolic Church. We pray for the Church in this nation and in this Diocese, remembering our Archbishops: Justin and Stephen and our Bishops: Graham, Alan and Jane. Let us pray to the Father Lord of compassion Lord, in your mercy, Hear our prayer. For the mission of the Church, that in faithful witness it may preach the gospel to the ends of the earth. For this church of St Botolph as it continues to provide a place of peace and prayer and serves as a witness to those who live in this parish. We give thanks for all those who have served this church in the past and we pray for Beryl and the PCC who make decisions about the way ahead. We pray for our Benefice and group of churches, for our schools and Thorp House. Let us pray to the Father: Lord of compassion Lord, in your mercy, Hear our prayer. For those preparing for baptism at this time and for their teachers and sponsors, Let us pray to the Father. Lord of compassion, Lord, in your mercy, Hear our prayer. For peace in the world, remembering the nations of the Ukraine and Russia that a spirit of respect and reconciliation may grow among all nations and peoples and also for Turkey and Syria after the earthquake this week. We pray for areas of strife within our own nation where neighbours dispute with one another. We pray for our police, ambulance and fire services. Let us pray to the Father. Lord of compassion, Lord, in your mercy, Hear our prayer. For the poor, the persecuted, the sick, and all who suffer, particularly today we pray for ……. For all refugees, prisoners and those in danger; that they may be relieved and protected. We pray for all health service workers in our hospitals and GP practices. We pray for all carers. Let us pray to the Father. Lord of compassion, Lord, in your mercy, Hear our prayer. For those we have injured or offended. We pray for anything we may have done to upset others and for a swift reconciliation with those who have upset us. Let us pray to the Father: Lord of compassion, Lord, in your mercy, Hear our prayer. For grace to amend our lives and to further the reign of God wherever we live and wherever we go. Let us pray to the Father. Lord of compassion, Lord, in your mercy, Hear our prayer. In communion with all those who have walked in the way of holiness and have now departed this life, Let us pray to the Father. Lord of compassion, Lord, in your mercy, Hear our prayer. Merciful Father, accept these prayers for the sake of your Son, our Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen The Peace: We are the body of Christ. In the one Spirit we were all baptized into one body. Let us then pursue all that makes for peace and builds up our common life. The peace of the Lord be always with you And also with you. The Lord’s Prayer: Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come; thy will be done; on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation; but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, the power and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen. Final Prayer: God our creator by your gift the tree of life was set at the heart of the earthly paradise, and the bread of life at the heart of your Church: may we who have been nourished at your table on earth be transformed by the glory of the Saviour’s cross and enjoy the delights of eternity; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen The Blessing: The peace of God, which passes all understanding, keep your hearts and minds in the knowledge and love of God, and of his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. And the blessing of God Almighty, the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit, be among you and remain with you always. Amen

Epiphany 3 + In the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. Amen The Greeting: Grace, mercy and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ be with you and also with you. Prayer of Preparation: Almighty God, to whom all hearts are open, all desires known, and from whom no secrets are hidden: cleanse the thoughts of our hearts by the inspiration of your Holy Spirit that we may perfectly love you and worthily magnify your holy name; through Christ our lord. Amen. The Gloria: Glory to God in the highest, and peace to his people on earth. Lord God, heavenly King, almighty God and Father, we worship you, we give you thanks, we praise you for your glory. Lord Jesus Christ, only Son of the father, Lord God, Lamb of God, you take away the sin of the world: have mercy on us; you are seated at the right hand of the Father: receive our prayer. For you alone are the Holy One, you alone are the Lord, you alone are the Most High, Jesus Christ, with the Holy Spirit, in the glory of God, the Father. Amen The Collect – Epiphany 3 Almighty God, whose Son revealed in signs and miracles the wonders of your saving presence: renew your people with your heavenly grace, and in all our weakness sustain us by your mighty power; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, who is alive and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen Readings: Isaiah 9: 1-4 9 Nevertheless, there will be no more gloom for those who were in distress. In the past he humbled the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, but in the future he will honour Galilee of the nations, by the Way of the Sea, beyond the Jordan— 2 The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned. 3 You have enlarged the nation and increased their joy; they rejoice before you as people rejoice at the harvest, as warriors rejoice when dividing the plunder. 4 For as in the day of Midian’s defeat, you have shattered the yoke that burdens them, the bar across their shoulders, the rod of their oppressor. 1 Corinthians 1: 10-18 10 I appeal to you, brothers and sisters, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another in what you say and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly united in mind and thought. 11 My brothers and sisters, some from Chloe’s household have informed me that there are quarrels among you. 12 What I mean is this: One of you says, “I follow Paul”; another, “I follow Apollos”; another, “I follow Cephas”; still another, “I follow Christ.” 13 Is Christ divided? Was Paul crucified for you? Were you baptized in the name of Paul? 14 I thank God that I did not baptize any of you except Crispus and Gaius, 15 so no one can say that you were baptized in my name. 16 (Yes, I also baptized the household of Stephanas; beyond that, I don’t remember if I baptized anyone else.) 17 For Christ did not send me to baptize, but to preach the gospel—not with wisdom and eloquence, lest the cross of Christ be emptied of its power. 18 For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. Matthew 4: 12-23 12 When Jesus heard that John had been put in prison, he withdrew to Galilee. 13 Leaving Nazareth, he went and lived in Capernaum, which was by the lake in the area of Zebulun and Naphtali— 14 to fulfil what was said through the prophet Isaiah: 15 “Land of Zebulun and land of Naphtali, the Way of the Sea, beyond the Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles— 16 the people living in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned.” 17 From that time on Jesus began to preach, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near. 18 As Jesus was walking beside the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon called Peter and his brother Andrew. They were casting a net into the lake, for they were fishermen. 19 “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will send you out to fish for people.” 20 At once they left their nets and followed him. 21 Going on from there, he saw two other brothers, James son of Zebedee and his brother John. They were in a boat with their father Zebedee, preparing their nets. Jesus called them, 22 and immediately they left the boat and their father and followed him. 23 Jesus went throughout Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom, and healing every disease and sickness among the people. Homily Today, our Gospel passage from St Matthew is about the calling of the first 4 disciples: Peter, Andrew, James and John. I think this story has to be linked with the Gospel from last week. There, we saw John the Baptist pointing out to his own disciples that Jesus, who was walking by at the time, was the Messiah: the one all of Israel was waiting for to deliver them from their oppression under the Romans. And as he said that, one of his disciples decided that this was a defining moment for him and he left John and started to follow Jesus. That was Andrew, whom the church remembers as the first missionary because, after spending just a couple of hours with Jesus, he went off to find his brother Simon and took him to Jesus. It was Jesus at that moment who gave Simon the name of Peter: a new name for a new way of life as a disciple. Our gospel passage today tells of an occasion sometime after. We know that because there is a reference back to Peter previously being called Simon. On this occasion, the brothers were casting a net into the Sea of Galilee as Jesus walked by and such was the power of what happened to them that they left what they were doing and went with Jesus. Likewise, two other brothers: James and John: also fishermen. As I was preparing this, I found myself wondering what it was about these men that made Jesus call them. I have never been fishing but it strikes me when I watch people fishing that what is required is a lot of patience. Much more patience than I would have in that situation. Patience to watch and wait for a fish to bite. An ability to spend many hours calmly concentrating on the best conditions and bait in order to land that huge specimen we often see in the photos afterwards. In order to earn a living, Peter, Andrew, James and John would have to go out night after night and sometimes return with nothing. Along with patience, the fishermen had to be extremely brave. The waters of the Sea of Galilee were unpredictable and a storm could suddenly rise up without warning. They could easily be drowned or their boats, and therefore their livelihoods, destroyed. A life with Jesus would take much courage as they engaged with him with the religious rulers of the day and preached a gospel of peace. Ultimately, nearly all of Jesus’ disciples met untimely and brutal deaths because of their faith. Jesus taught them that in his Kingdom the last would be first and those who wanted to be first would be last. James and John learnt that the hard way when they wanted special seats in Jesus’ Kingdom and Jesus told them that those seats did not belong to them. Jesus of course knew his 12 disciples through and through. He knew their gifts and he knew their failings. Today we are looking at the call of Peter, Andrew, James and John. Three of them: Peter, James and John became almost like an inner circle. They were the ones chosen to accompany Jesus up the mountain and witness his Transfiguration. They were the ones who were with Jesus when he raised Jairus’ daughter from the dead. They were with Jesus in Gethsemane as he prayed on the night of his arrest. Those three seem to have been specially prepared by Jesus for leadership positions in the early church. What of Andrew? Andrew, as I said earlier was the one who brought people to Jesus by explaining who Jesus was and somehow knowing what was needed at the time. He brought Peter to Jesus. Peter was the first disciple to confess who Jesus was publicly. He brought the young boy who had 5 loaves and 2 fish to Jesus and Jesus performed a miracle in front of 5000 people. When certain Greeks wanted to know about Jesus, they approached Philip who then told Andrew who took them to Jesus. Jesus recognised that Andrew had a deep faith and true knowledge of his mission and his role in the early church would be different to that of other three. I wonder what we can learn from the call of the first 4 disciples about our own calling? Jesus says in St John’s gospel: “You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit – fruit that will last – and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you.” That is a two-fold commission and I think that whoever we are, we can serve God in those two ways and perhaps the emphasis will change at different times in our lives. There is, first of all, how we can bear fruit. Our reading from Paul’s first letter to the Corinthians today tells us that we should be in agreement and that there should be no divisions amongst us. On Friday, the Church of England published prayers and resources which could be used within a service of blessing following Civil Partnerships or Marriages of same sex couples. These resources will be discussed at General Synod in February. Instantly the divisions in the Church of England over this have surfaced again, with those whose opinions have been formed by literal acceptance of what it says in the Bible pitched against those who are in same-sex relationships and believe that the church is not going far enough to accept and include them. Sadly this is not the only issue which divides us. It’s the one with the most to say at this moment but the authority of women within church leadership still polarizes many Christians. It is clear that we are far from the agreement that Paul asks for and we probably will never get to that point. Our call in these days as Christians is to agree or disagree with love and after searching our souls as to our motives and where our beliefs come from. That can only happen when we try to love and accept everyone. Then comes the second part of our commission. We are to ask God in prayer for a solution to all of our church’s needs, our nation’s needs and our world’s needs. We don’t need the courage of Peter, Andrew, James and John to do this. We can do it however old or young we are. We are people who straggle two worlds: one which struggles with any kind of unity and common good most of the time and God’s Kingdom which we can bring into the world through our prayers. Just like the early disciples, we have a role and a job to do and that role has never been more needed than in these days. Intercessions: In peace, let us pray to Jesus our Lord who ever lives to make intercession for us. Saviour of the world, be present in all places of suffering, violence and pain, and bring hope even in the darkest night. Inspire us to continue your work of reconciliation today. In our world we pray for areas of conflict and injustice and we pray for all refugees and prisoners of conscience. Lord, in your mercy: Hear our prayer. Lord of the Church, empower by your Spirit all Christian people and the work of your church in every land. Give us grace to proclaim the gospel joyfully in word and deed. In this week of prayer for Christian Unity, we give thanks for our brothers and sisters attending church in other Christian denominations. We pray that the things that unite us may be greater than those things that divide us and that we would draw closer together in our joint worship and service. We pray for Graham, Alan and Jane our Bishops. Give them an ever deepening peace and a sense of your Presence. Lord, in your mercy: Hear our prayer. Shepherd and Guardian of our souls, guide and enable all who lead and serve this community and those on whom we depend for our daily needs. We pray for this church of and all who serve here. We give thanks for all those who have been a part of this congregation over the years. We pray for each of our villages and our churches, for all places of work and homes. We pray that all those in any kind of need may find help and support. We pray for our schools and the residents and staff of Thorp House. Lord, in your mercy: Hear our prayer Great physician, Stretch out your hand to bring comfort, wholeness and peace to all who suffer in body, mind or spirit. Fill us with compassion, that we may be channels of your healing love. We pray for anyone we know who is ill or in need, particularly today for…… Lord in your mercy: Hear our prayer Conqueror of death, remember for good those whom we love but see no longer. Help us to live this day in the sure and certain hope of your eternal victory. Lord, in your mercy: Hear our prayer. Let us commend ourselves, and all for whom we pray, to the mercy and protection of God. Merciful Father, Accept our prayers for the sake of your Son, our Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen The Peace: Our Saviour Christ is the Prince of Peace of the increase of his government and of peace there shall be no end. The peace of the Lord be always with you And also with you. The Lord’s Prayer: Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come; thy will be done; on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation; but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, the power and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen. Final Prayer: Almighty Father whose Son our Saviour Jesus Christ is the light of the world: may your people, Illumined by your word and sacraments, shine with the radiance of his glory, that he may be known, worshipped and obeyed to the ends of the earth; for he is alive and reigns, now and for ever, Amen The Blessing: Christ the Son of God perfect in you the image of his glory and gladden your hearts with the good news of his kingdom; and the blessing of God Almighty, the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit, be among you and remain with you always. Amen

Second Sunday after Christmas + In the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. Amen The Greeting: Grace, mercy and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ be with you and also with you. Prayer of Preparation: Almighty God, to whom all hearts are open, all desires known, and from whom no secrets are hidden: cleanse the thoughts of our hearts by the inspiration of your Holy Spirit that we may perfectly love you and worthily magnify your holy name; through Christ our lord. Amen. The Gloria: Glory to God in the highest, and peace to his people on earth. Lord God, heavenly King, almighty God and Father, we worship you, we give you thanks, we praise you for your glory. Lord Jesus Christ, only Son of the Father, Lord God, Lamb of God, you take away the sin of the world: have mercy on us; you are seated at the right hand of the Father: receive our prayer. For you alone are the Holy One, you alone are the Lord, you alone are the Most High, Jesus Christ, with the Holy Spirit, in the glory of God, the Father. Amen The Collect – Second Sunday after Christmas Almighty God whose blessed Son was circumcised in obedience to the law for our sake and given the Name that is above every name: give us grace faithfully to bear his Name, to worship him in the freedom of the Spirit, and to proclaim him as the Saviour of the world; who is alive and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen. Readings: Numbers 6: 22-27 22 The LORD said to Moses, 23 “Tell Aaron and his sons, ‘This is how you are to bless the Israelites. Say to them: 24 “‘“The LORD bless you and keep you; 25 the LORD make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; 26 the LORD turn his face toward you and give you peace.”’ 27 “So they will put my name on the Israelites, and I will bless them” Galatians 4: 4-7 4 But when the set time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, 5 to redeem those under the law, that we might receive adoption to sonship. 6 Because you are his sons, God sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, the Spirit who calls out, “Abba, Father.” 7 So you are no longer a slave, but God’s child; and since you are his child, God has made you also an heir. Luke 2: 15-21 15 When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.” 16 So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. 17 When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, 18 and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. 19 But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. 20 The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told. 21 On the eighth day, when it was time to circumcise the child, he was named Jesus, the name the angel had given him before he was conceived. Homily Today we are thinking about the Naming and Circumcision of Jesus. It’s not that often that we think about this in church because the festival only occurs on 1st January, so it only comes around every few years. As I was preparing for this, I found myself digging into good old Google for information about Jewish naming and circumcision. Information in St Luke’s gospel is extremely short. We have just heard that the shepherds had left the stable after visiting Jesus, praising God for showing them the Christ-child. Eight days later, it was prescribed by Jewish law that every male child be circumcised and named. And so it was for Jesus. The ceremony itself would most probably have been carried out by Joseph at home. It was not so much a religious ceremony but a family one. Mary was considered impure for 40 days and so had to stay at home. Family members had to stay home too because of their contact with her. In a few weeks’ time, we will be thinking about Jesus being presented in the Temple in Jerusalem. That is the religious ceremony where offerings had to be made and the child dedicated to God. But today we are thinking about the ordinary Jewish family at home; Jesus’ name is officially announced to anyone from the family at the ceremony and Jesus becomes a Jew. A name and a home. They are both the most important things which speak of our identity. Our first names are given to us by our parents and they often have special significance. Our surnames show where we have come from and who we belong to in a wider sense. Jesus would have likely been known as Jesus ben-Joseph. Jesus, son of Joseph. As we know, that wasn’t strictly true as Mary was a virgin when she conceived the Son of God. Jesus ben-Joseph was also probably said with a bit of tongue in cheek as everyone around knew that Joseph was not his biological father. Right from the beginning, God had chosen to experience all that being human meant. He was born into poverty, homeless and with a large question mark over his parentage. Ever since Joseph had met the angel Gabriel in a dream, however, he had become the best earthly father he could to Jesus and had cared for Mary. Assuming the name of Joseph for this Jewish baby meant that he took on that family’s history. We know from the Christmas story that Joseph was a descendant of King David. That’s why, when she’s just about to give birth, Mary has to travel to Bethlehem with her husband for a random census. Bethlehem was where David was born and their extended family was still living and so Mary and Joseph needed to be counted there. Jesus needed to be born in Bethlehem because hundreds of years earlier the prophet Micah had said that the Saviour of the world would be born there. Micah 5: 2 says “But you Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clan of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel”. He goes on to describe this ruler: “He will stand and shepherd his flock in the strength of the Lord, in the majesty of the name of the Lord his God. and they will live securely, for then his greatness will reach to the ends of the earth” Jesus ben-Joseph took on the whole history of his earthly father on the day he was named. We know also that he took on much more than that. The name “Jesus” was actually quite common among the Hebrews. It has the same root as the name “Joshua.” Joshua in the Old Testament was the great leader of the people who followed on after Moses and led them into the Promised Land. He saved them from a life of wandering around in the wilderness. He was a great military leader who helped them to defeat the people already living in the land and conquer it for the people of God. “Jesus” was not a name originally given to this baby by his parents. It was the name that they were told to give the baby by the angel Gabriel – God’s chief messenger. Mary was told when Gabriel visited her and Joseph was told – again in a dream. It’s like God Himself wanted to make sure that everyone in this drama remembered who the baby was and would be. His identity would always be clear: every time Mary called him home for tea, every time Joseph showed him how to use the carpenter’s tools, every time they talked to their friends about him: “our boy Jesus” (the one who will save the world). It was never just about Jesus ben Joseph’s family life however. When St Matthew talks about the name of Jesus, he writes: “All this took place to fulfil what the Lord had said through the prophet: ‘A virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Emmanuel’ which means ‘God with us.’ “ (Matthew 1: 22-23) There we have the whole point of the story which we have been hearing over Christmas. “God is with us” Not God was with us or God will be with us. At that moment in time, in a tiny town, in Roman occupied Palestine: God was born. He could never understand fully what it was like to be human unless he took upon himself the time and the place elements of existence, but the name “Emmanuel” makes us all part of the story. These two names tell us how it will all pan out. “Jesus” is the One who will save his people then and now from those things which separate us from God because God desires to be with us eternally. He desires to be in relationship with us and to give us all an identity which is deeper than every human bond we have managed to forge in our own strength. He desires to form new families where He is the Head and we can feel loved and at home. Intercessions: Father of us all: we pray for the Christian church at this time. We pray for Christians all over the world and for Justin and Stephen our Archbishops. In our Diocese we pray for our Bishops: Graham, Alan and Jane. We pray for all Christian denominations: particularly for those who meet in this area: for greater unity and a renewed sense of mission to the people who live here. We pray for those involved in making decisions about the churches in the Breckland Deanery and how we will work together this year. We pray for this church dedicated to St Botolph and for our Benefice, giving thanks for all those who attended Christmas services, that they may continue to be blessed in their lives. We pray for all the activities which have taken place recently whether fundraising or worship that our influence in this area may grow and deepen. Lord in your mercy: Hear our prayer Father of us all, we pray for our world and its leaders: for a greater sense of working for the good of all. We pray for all those still affected by the virus throughout the world, especially the poorest nations. We pray for nations at war particularly Russia and Ukraine. We pray for all refugees and those who are homeless and have to live on the streets. We pray for all agencies providing shelter and food, for all food banks and warm buildings schemes. We pray for our King and members of the royal family. Lord in your mercy: Hear our prayer Heavenly Father, we pray for our group of parishes and the villages that make up this Benefice. We pray for those within our villages suffering hardship, that they will be able to reach out for the support they need. We pray for our friends and neighbours and all we come into contact with that we might show God’s love wherever we go. We pray for our local schools, places of work, our farms and the local shops. Lord in your mercy: Hear our prayer Heavenly Father we pray for those we know in need of God’s love and assurance at this time. For all those suffering the economic effects of high inflation. For those who have lost their livelihoods and those who need to make life-changing decisions. We pray for the sick and those who look after them and for the residents of Thorp House. We pray especially for………… Lord in your mercy: Hear our prayer Heavenly Father, we remember those from amongst our own families and friends who have departed this life and we pray that we may be joined with them in experiencing your Eternal Kingdom. Merciful Father, accept these prayers for the sake of your Son, our Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen The Peace: Unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given, And his name shall be called the Prince of Peace. The peace of the Lord be always with you And also with you. The Lord’s Prayer: Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come; thy will be done; on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation; but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, the power and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen. Final Prayer: All praise to you, Almighty God and Heavenly King, who sent your Son into the world to take our nature upon him and to be born of a pure virgin: grant that, as we are born again in him, so he may continually dwell in us and reign on earth as he reigns in heaven, now and for ever. Amen. The Blessing: Christ, who by his incarnation gathered into one, things earthly and heavenly, fill you with peace and goodwill and make you partakers of the divine nature; and the blessing of God Almighty, the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit, be among you and remain with you always. Amen

+ In the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. Amen The Greeting: Grace, mercy and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ be with you and also with you. Prayer of Preparation: Almighty God, to whom all hearts are open, all desires known, and from whom no secrets are hidden: cleanse the thoughts of our hearts by the inspiration of your Holy Spirit that we may perfectly love you and worthily magnify your holy name; through Christ our lord. Amen. The Collect – 2nd Sunday in Advent O Lord, raise up, we pray, your power and come among us, and with great might succour us; that whereas, through our sins and wickedness we are grievously hindered in running the race that is set before us, your bountiful grace and mercy may speedily help and deliver us; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, to whom with you and the Holy Spirit, be honour and glory, now and for ever Amen Readings: Isaiah 11: 1-10 11 A shoot will come up from the stump of Jesse; from his roots a Branch will bear fruit. 2 The Spirit of the LORD will rest on him— the Spirit of wisdom and of understanding, the Spirit of counsel and of might, the Spirit of the knowledge and fear of the LORD— 3 and he will delight in the fear of the LORD. He will not judge by what he sees with his eyes, or decide by what he hears with his ears; 4 but with righteousness he will judge the needy, with justice he will give decisions for the poor of the earth. He will strike the earth with the rod of his mouth; with the breath of his lips he will slay the wicked. 5 Righteousness will be his belt and faithfulness the sash around his waist. 6 The wolf will live with the lamb, the leopard will lie down with the goat, the calf and the lion and the yearling[a] together; and a little child will lead them. 7 The cow will feed with the bear, their young will lie down together, and the lion will eat straw like the ox. 8 The infant will play near the cobra’s den, and the young child will put its hand into the viper’s nest. 9 They will neither harm nor destroy on all my holy mountain, for the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the LORD as the waters cover the sea. 10 In that day the Root of Jesse will stand as a banner for the peoples; the nations will rally to him, and his resting place will be glorious. Romans 15: 4-13 4 For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope. 5 May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had, 6 so that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. 7 Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God. 8 For I tell you that Christ has become a servant of the Jews on behalf of God’s truth, so that the promises made to the patriarchs might be confirmed 9 and, moreover, that the Gentiles might glorify God for his mercy. As it is written: “Therefore I will praise you among the Gentiles; I will sing the praises of your name.” 10 Again, it says, “Rejoice, you Gentiles, with his people.” 11 And again, “Praise the Lord, all you Gentiles; let all the peoples extol him.” 12 And again, Isaiah says, “The Root of Jesse will spring up, one who will arise to rule over the nations; in him the Gentiles will hope.” 13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Matthew 3: 1-12 3 In those days John the Baptist came, preaching in the wilderness of Judea 2 and saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.” 3 This is he who was spoken of through the prophet Isaiah: “A voice of one calling in the wilderness, ‘Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him.’” 4 John’s clothes were made of camel’s hair, and he had a leather belt around his waist. His food was locusts and wild honey. 5 People went out to him from Jerusalem and all Judea and the whole region of the Jordan. 6 Confessing their sins, they were baptized by him in the Jordan River. 7 But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees coming to where he was baptizing, he said to them: “You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the coming wrath? 8 Produce fruit in keeping with repentance. 9 And do not think you can say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as our father.’ I tell you that out of these stones God can raise up children for Abraham. 10 The axe is already at the root of the trees, and every tree that does not produce good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire. 11 “I baptize you with water for repentance. But after me comes one who is more powerful than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. 12 His winnowing fork is in his hand, and he will clear his threshing floor, gathering his wheat into the barn and burning up the chaff with unquenchable fire.” Homily: This past week I was at Caston school, leading one of my half-termly assemblies and it was a gift as to the theme as it took place just two days after the start of Advent. Advent is a subject that you can interest children in quite easily because most of them have Advent candles or Advent calendars which give out chocolate every time they count down a day to Christmas. So, I said: “the word Advent is a Latin word which means ‘Coming’. So, who or what is coming?” And I had a little bet with myself as to what they would say, as last year I had conducted the same activity at Thompson school. And sure enough: the answer was “Santa” followed by “Father Christmas” (Is there a difference?) Then, as in Thompson, the teachers got a bit hot under the collar as they knew where the Vicar was trying to get to and one of them said: “you remember, we did this yesterday” and eventually someone told me that: “Jesus is coming”. They were then disappointed to hear that Tesco and all the other places which sell Advent calendars have it wrong in fact. Advent is not about counting down the days of December and getting a chocolate every day. It is a season which began and continues in the Church and begins 4 Sundays before Christmas – so somewhere in November – and ends with the greatest festival of the Church’s year: so, not counting down but counting up. As we travel through Advent, we try not to get too carried away by the whole Christmas preparation thing because it is meant to be a time of reflection and preparing our hearts to receive the Son of God as a baby. I was struck by the enormity of that phrase as I typed it. Preparing to receive the Son of God as a baby. Our Readings today very much pick up on this theme of preparation. Part of a prophecy given to Isaiah tells of someone being born who will change the whole world order. Someone who will usher in a time of peace where lions will lie down with lambs without killing them. Don’t we need someone who can bring peace to our world at this time? We even get a clue where this person will come from. He will be a “shoot from the stock of Jesse”. Jessie was the father of David, the great King of Israel and we know that Jesus was of his line through Joseph. So, Isaiah centuries before his birth, is prophesying about the coming of Jesus. Also, today, we meet another character who is concerned with preparation. It seems a bit strange that in the run up to Christmas we have a reading from St Matthew about the adult John the Baptist because, also in this season, we will read about his miraculous birth, and we know that he was only a few months older than Jesus. But today, we jump to meeting him for the first time: this rather odd character of the grown-up John the Baptist. He is in fact much more like one of the Old Testament prophets breathing fire and damnation on those who have wandered away from God and demanding they return. We first meet him as he emerges from the desert, dressed in just a camel’s skin. We imagine that he did not care that much for his personal appearance or hygiene, he had loftier things on his mind. His diet too was very restricted; he only ate locusts and wild honey. We believe he had taken something called a Nazarite vow. That was a very strict vow made to God and involved letting his hair grow long, not drinking any kind of wine and isolating himself from the community, particularly not having anything to do with death and dead bodies. It is thought that Samson had taken a Nazarite vow and was given great physical strength as a result of his devotion. So, John the Baptist was preparing himself in a very strict way both to receive from God and to minister on behalf of God. We don’t know anything about when and how John’s call from God came to him. It is likely that he knew about it for the whole of his life: told about who he would be by his parents. Their whole community would have obviously known that Elizabeth and Zechariah had always been praying for a baby but Elizabeth had never got pregnant. They would also know that immediately after Zechariah’s turn to be the priest in the Holy of Holies in the Temple in Jerusalem he had returned to them unable to speak after meeting God as he prayed for the people. Then Elizabeth became pregnant. Zechariah had been told by God that the baby Elizabeth was carrying would be the one chosen to prepare the way and the people for Jesus’ coming. Imagine Zechariah and Elizabeth sitting John down one day and telling him that this was the Call on his life. Places and hearts were being prepared for the coming of the world’s Saviour. Hearts were being changed and lives turned upside down. Today we are keeping the second Sunday of Advent in our churches. As we move nearer to Christmas, there are many preparations which we need to make to ensure that our families and friends have presents and food and know that we love them. Practical preparations. There are also preparations which need to be made to ensure that our churches look beautiful and that we have a message that speaks to this time in our world so that the people who have been given to us by God know that He loves them. These four weeks are also a time for us to make our own spiritual preparations to be ready to celebrate the birth of God’s Son. It’s a time for us to evaluate where we are spiritually: with God and how our relationships with our families and others are. It’s good for us to try and take a few minutes extra time out of all our practical preparations to sit quietly and reflect on how we are. Perhaps to read a Christian book or a book of the Bible. Our own preparations are as important as the preparations we will make for our own family Christmas. There’s a bumper sticker we see around at this time of the year, sometimes. It reads: “Jesus is the reason for the season”. Not as my little friend in school said: “Santa is coming”. Jesus is coming: to our churches and to us individually and is the point of our preparations. Intercessions: Come to your Church and people as Lord and Judge. Help us to live in the light of your coming and give us a longing for your kingdom. Lord, in your mercy: Hear our Prayer. Come to your world as King of the nations. We pray for those areas of our world where violence is common place and many flee their homes to escape greedy and cruel regimes. We remember the trouble spots of our world, particularly the nations of Russia and Ukraine. We pray for areas of our own nation where there is poverty and many people are needing to rely on the good of others through foodbanks and school meals programmes. We pray for our Prime Minister and government with decisions to be made to alleviate poverty and strengthen our unity with one another. Before you rulers will stand in silence. Lord, in your mercy: Hear our prayer. Come to your people with a message of victory and peace. We pray for the Church in this parish of the Holy Cross and in our Benefice giving thanks for all those who sacrifice time, money and energy to provide places where others may come and seek peace. We pray for the Church in the Breckland Deanery and for continued deliberations about the future of individual churches and clergy cover in this area. We pray for our Bishops: Graham, Alan and Jane and particularly for Bishop Alan and his wife Pippa as they prepare for their retirement in April. Give us victory over death, temptation and evil. Lord, in your mercy: Hear our prayer. Come to us as Saviour and Comforter. Today we pray for ….. We pray also for our relatives and friends who have passed into eternal life and we ask that we may too enter into that peace. We pray for anyone known to us who needs our prayers at this time. Break into our lives, where we struggle with sickness and distress, and set us free to serve you for ever. Lord, in your mercy: Hear our prayer. Come to us from heaven, Lord Jesus, with power and great glory. Lift us up to meet you, with all your saints and angels, to live with you for ever. Lord, in your mercy: Hear our prayer. Merciful Father, accept these prayers for the sake of your Son, our Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen The Peace: In the tender mercy of our God, the dayspring from on high shall break upon us, to give light to those who dwell in darkness and in the shadow of death and to guide our feet into the way of peace. The peace of the Lord be always with you And also with you. The Lord’s Prayer: Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come; thy will be done; on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation; but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, the power and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen. Final Prayer: Father in heaven, who sent your Son to redeem the world and will send him again to be our Judge; give us grace so to imitate him in the humility and purity of his first coming that, when he comes again, we may be ready to greet him with joyful love and firm faith, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen The Blessing: Christ the Son of Righteousness shine upon you, scatter the darkness from before your path, and make you ready to meet him when he comes in glory; and the blessing of God Almighty, the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit, be among you and remain with you always. Amen

Last Sunday after Trinity/Bible Sunday + In the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. Amen The Greeting: Grace, mercy and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ be with you and also with you. Prayer of Preparation: Almighty God, to whom all hearts are open, all desires known, and from whom no secrets are hidden: cleanse the thoughts of our hearts by the inspiration of your Holy Spirit that we may perfectly love you and worthily magnify your holy name; through Christ our lord. Amen. The Gloria: Glory to God in the highest, and peace to his people on earth. Lord God, heavenly King, almighty God and Father, we worship you, we give you thanks, we praise you for your glory. Lord Jesus Christ, only Son of the father, Lord God, Lamb of God, you take away the sin of the world: have mercy on us; you are seated at the right hand of the Father: receive our prayer. For you alone are the Holy One, you alone are the Lord, you alone are the Most High, Jesus Christ, with the Holy Spirit, in the glory of God, the Father. Amen The Collect – Bible Sunday Blessed Lord, who caused all holy Scriptures to be written for our learning: help us so to hear them, to read, mark, learn and inwardly digest them that, through patience, and the comfort of your holy word, we may embrace and for ever hold fast the hope of everlasting life, which you have given us in our Saviour Jesus Christ, who is alive and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen Readings: Isaiah 45: 22-25 “Turn to me and be saved, all you ends of the earth; for I am God, and there is no other. 23 By myself I have sworn, my mouth has uttered in all integrity a word that will not be revoked: Before me every knee will bow; by me every tongue will swear. 24 They will say of me, ‘In the LORD alone are deliverance and strength.’” All who have raged against him will come to him and be put to shame. 25 But all the descendants of Israel will find deliverance in the LORD and will make their boast in him. Romans 15: 1-6 15 We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves. 2 Each of us should please our neighbours for their good, to build them up. 3 For even Christ did not please himself but, as it is written: “The insults of those who insult you have fallen on me.” 4 For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope. 5 May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had, 6 so that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Luke 4: 16-24 16 He went to Nazareth, where he had been brought up, and on the Sabbath day he went into the synagogue, as was his custom. He stood up to read, 17 and the scroll of the prophet Isaiah was handed to him. Unrolling it, he found the place where it is written: 18 “The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free, 19 to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favour.” 20 Then he rolled up the scroll, gave it back to the attendant and sat down. The eyes of everyone in the synagogue were fastened on him. 21 He began by saying to them, “Today this scripture is fulfilled in your hearing.” 22 All spoke well of him and were amazed at the gracious words that came from his lips. “Isn’t this Joseph’s son?” they asked. 23 Jesus said to them, “Surely you will quote this proverb to me: ‘Physician, heal yourself!’ And you will tell me, ‘Do here in your hometown what we have heard that you did in Capernaum.’ 24 “Truly I tell you,” he continued, “no prophet is accepted in his hometown”. Homily: Today is the 19th Sunday after Trinity, the final Sunday before we begin to celebrate other seasons of the Church’s year. The final Sunday of the Trinity season is the one where we think about the Bible. I don’t know about you but the Collect for today is just one of those which always sticks in my mind. I’ll just remind you of the words: “Blessed Lord, who caused all holy Scriptures to be written for our learning: help us so to hear them, to read, mark, learn and inwardly digest them that, through patience, and the comfort of your holy word, we may embrace and for ever hold fast the hope of everlasting life ……” Mr Google informs me that there have been over 50 different translations of the Bible. Most of us will remember that the version we always heard in Church years ago was the King James: the one with the thee’s and thou’s and shouldests and wouldests. There have been many other translations since then, however. Some are direct translations of the original Old Testament Hebrew and New Testament Greek, others are not direct translations but give a more general sense of the passages. These are mainly used and chosen for reading out loud or for personal study. The Bible is still the book that is purchased and read the most in the world today incredibly. If we look at the alternative Collect for this morning, we see why we are instructed to read the Bible: “teach us to be faithful in change and uncertainty, that trusting in your word and obeying your will we may enter the unfailing joy of Jesus Christ our Lord”. We can certainly say that we know what it’s like to live in a changing and uncertain world at the moment. A society where Prime Ministers last less than two months and no one seems to have a clear plan of how to help us out of our economic difficulties and lead us to a place where we feel secure. It is in our places of change and insecurity, however, that we can turn to our faith in God to sustain us. As Christians we live with a foot in two different worlds. There is first of all: the here and now, where, for this present time, we are a part of this world which suffers whether it be from war and disaster or through an unstable economy. The Collect tells us that there are two things which will help us to rise above what is going on. One is that reading and trusting in the Word of God that says a better time will come one day and the other is doing the best we can in whatever circumstances we find ourselves. Doing these two things brings a deep-seated joy which can cope with whatever the world throws at us. In our Gospel today, we heard the account of Jesus going to his hometown of Nazareth and reading some words of the Prophet Isaiah. The prophet was actually speaking about the Call of God on his own life. The Holy Spirit of God had called him to make a difference to the world in which he was living by actively supporting those weaker than himself and giving them enthusiasm and encouragement to find hope in their lives. As Jesus read those words, he realized that was the same Call of God on his own life. Lived out in a somewhat different way, however. He was given power through the Spirit to heal the sick and proclaim release for those imprisoned for their crimes or by physical and mental illness. He was called to heal those who were blind and oppressed by their life circumstances. Same Call, different time in history. The word of God was what was urging Isaiah and Jesus into action. And since then, Christians have read the same words, interpreted them in different ways and got on with the business of helping themselves and others to live in changing and uncertain times. Julian of Norwich was someone close to our hearts here in Norfolk. After having lived through the Black Death in the 14th century and herself recovered from an illness which her physician thought would kill her, she became an anchoress living alone apart from a cat and the servant who made her meals. She spent her time praying and giving advice to people as they walked past her cell. Her life was devoted to reading and learning from the Scriptures and praying so that others would be encouraged in their walk with God. As well as helping people to live in this present age, the Word of God can help people to prepare for the next life. The Collect says: “through patience and the comfort of your holy word, We may embrace and for ever hold fast the hope of everlasting life”. The New Testament tells us a lot about our eternal life: given to us when we became members of God’s family either through Baptism or personal renewal. The Book of Revelation is not an easy book to read but in a vision from God, St John was able to see and then write down what this life will be like. Jesus in St John’s Gospel tells us that after his Ascension into Heaven he will prepare a place for us to join him. It’s a reading we often have at funerals because it’s then we need to remember the hope we have been given both for own future and that of those we love. Jesus says: “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. My father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you?” As we read the Bible, we can find comfort both for this time in our lives and hope for the life to come. Intercessions: Our help comes from the Lord. Let us pray to him now. Loving Father, we pray for those who teach prayer and Bible Study at schools and colleges, retreat houses and conferences, and in churches and homes all over the world. We pray that many will find your words speaking into their situation And providing the guidance they need. We pray for Graham, Alan and Jane our Bishops and all clergy in this Diocese as they study your Word and teach your people. Lord, in your mercy Hear our prayer We pray for all those in our world who live in places of conflict and danger. We pray for the people of Ukraine and other troubled areas in our world. We pray for those of our Christian brothers and sisters who are enduring persecution because of their faith. We pray for the work of the Bible Society and other organisations who constantly choose to put their lives in danger when they take Bibles into countries where Christianity is forbidden. Lord, in your mercy Hear our prayer. We pray for the grace to listen to one another and respond to one another’s needs; We pray for a spirit of cooperation and generosity in all the homes of this parish and benefice. We pray for our friends and all whom we come into contact as we go about our daily lives. We pray for our schools in Caston, Great Hockham and Thompson on Half Term holiday this coming week. Lord, in your mercy Hear our prayer. We pray for those who are wrestling with problems which seem too big to cope with; For those who are sick and waiting for medical interventions. For those who struggle with mental and emotional health conditions who often feel misunderstood and uncared for. For those who have no one to pray for them and no one to guide them. We pray today for ……. Lord, in your mercy Hear our prayer. We pray for those who have recently departed this life, particularly Trevor William Mason. We pray for his wife and family and all who mourn his passing. And we pray that all those we have loved will rest in eternal peace and rise in everlasting glory. Lord, in your mercy Hear our prayer. Father, we thank you for your Word, contained in Holy Scripture and also learnt through the circumstances of our lives and the beauty of our world. We pray that we may constantly live our lives in awareness of your actions in the world and always thank and praise your name. Merciful Father, Accept these prayers for the sake of your Son, our Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen The Peace: We are the body of Christ. In the one Spirit we were all baptized into one body. Let us then pursue all that makes for peace and builds up our common life. The peace of the Lord be always with you. And also with you. The Lord’s Prayer: Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come; thy will be done; on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation; but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, the power and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen. Final Prayer: God of all grace, your Son Jesus Christ fed the hungry with the bread of his life and the word of his kingdom: renew your people with your heavenly grace, and in all our weakness sustain us by your true and living bread; who is alive and reigns, now and for ever. Amen The Blessing: The peace of God, which passes all understanding, keep your hearts and minds in the knowledge and love of God, and of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord; And the blessing of God Almighty, the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit, be among you and remain with you always. Amen

+ In the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. Amen The Greeting: Grace, mercy and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ be with you and also with you. Prayer of Preparation: Almighty God, to whom all hearts are open, all desires known, and from whom no secrets are hidden: cleanse the thoughts of our hearts by the inspiration of your Holy Spirit that we may perfectly love you and worthily magnify your holy name; through Christ our lord. Amen. The Gloria: Glory to God in the highest, and peace to his people on earth. Lord God, heavenly King, almighty God and Father, we worship you, we give you thanks, we praise you for your glory. Lord Jesus Christ, only Son of the father, Lord God, Lamb of God, you take away the sin of the world: have mercy on us; you are seated at the right hand of the Father: receive our prayer. For you alone are the Holy One, you alone are the Lord, you alone are the Most High, Jesus Christ, with the Holy Spirit, in the glory of God, the Father. Amen The Collect – 18th Sunday after Trinity Almighty and everlasting God, increase in us your gift of faith that, forsaking what lies behind and reaching out to that which is before, we may run the way of your commandments and win the crown of everlasting joy; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, who is alive and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen Readings: Esther 8: 1-17 8 That same day King Xerxes gave Queen Esther the estate of Haman, the enemy of the Jews. And Mordecai came into the presence of the king, for Esther had told how he was related to her. 2 The king took off his signet ring, which he had reclaimed from Haman, and presented it to Mordecai. And Esther appointed him over Haman’s estate. 3 Esther again pleaded with the king, falling at his feet and weeping. She begged him to put an end to the evil plan of Haman the Agagite, which he had devised against the Jews. 4 Then the king extended the gold sceptre to Esther and she arose and stood before him. 5 “If it pleases the king,” she said, “and if he regards me with favour and thinks it the right thing to do, and if he is pleased with me, let an order be written overruling the dispatches that Haman son of Hammedatha, the Agagite, devised and wrote to destroy the Jews in all the king’s provinces. 6 For how can I bear to see disaster fall on my people? How can I bear to see the destruction of my family?” 7 King Xerxes replied to Queen Esther and to Mordecai the Jew, “Because Haman attacked the Jews, I have given his estate to Esther, and they have impaled him on the pole he set up. 8 Now write another decree in the king’s name on behalf of the Jews as seems best to you, and seal it with the king’s signet ring—for no document written in the king’s name and sealed with his ring can be revoked.” 11 The king’s edict granted the Jews in every city the right to assemble and protect themselves; to destroy, kill and annihilate the armed men of any nationality or province who might attack them and their women and children, and to plunder the property of their enemies. 12 The day appointed for the Jews to do this in all the provinces of King Xerxes was the thirteenth day of the twelfth month, the month of Adar. 13 A copy of the text of the edict was to be issued as law in every province and made known to the people of every nationality so that the Jews would be ready on that day to avenge themselves on their enemies. 14 The couriers, riding the royal horses, went out, spurred on by the king’s command, and the edict was issued in the citadel of Susa. 15 When Mordecai left the king’s presence, he was wearing royal garments of blue and white, a large crown of gold and a purple robe of fine linen. And the city of Susa held a joyous celebration. 16 For the Jews it was a time of happiness and joy, gladness and honour. 17 In every province and in every city to which the edict of the king came, there was joy and gladness among the Jews, with feasting and celebrating. And many people of other nationalities became Jews because fear of the Jews had seized them. 2 Timothy 3:14-4:5 14 But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, because you know those from whom you learned it, 15 and how from infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. 16 All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, 17 so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. 4 In the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who will judge the living and the dead, and in view of his appearing and his kingdom, I give you this charge: 2 Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction. 3 For the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. 4 They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths. 5 But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry. Luke 18:1-8 18 Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up. 2 He said: “In a certain town there was a judge who neither feared God nor cared what people thought. 3 And there was a widow in that town who kept coming to him with the plea, ‘Grant me justice against my adversary.’ 4 “For some time he refused. But finally he said to himself, ‘Even though I don’t fear God or care what people think, 5 yet because this widow keeps bothering me, I will see that she gets justice, so that she won’t eventually come and attack me!’” 6 And the Lord said, “Listen to what the unjust judge says. 7 And will not God bring about justice for his chosen ones, who cry out to him day and night? Will he keep putting them off? 8 I tell you, he will see that they get justice, and quickly. However, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on the earth?” Homily: Last week we left the wicked Haman going off to a banquet with Xerxes the King and Esther, his Queen. He had ordered his men to erect a gallows for Mordecai to be hanged on and life for him felt good. For Esther, the banquet was part of her scheme to get the King to save the Jews who were under threat. When she got to the banquet and had made sure Xerxes and Haman were well supplied with good food and drink, she made her request to the King. And it’s a bit of a strange request: the request was that they come back to a second banquet the next day and then she would give her request to the King. Of course, it was all part of the plan to relax everyone and make them less aware of what was happening. We know that the evil Haman was really enjoying being the only person selected to be with the King and Queen. At the second banquet Esther explained to the King that her people had been given a death threat and needed his help. The King was outraged that Esther’s people had been threatened and he wanted to know who was responsible. When he discovered that it was his own officer: Haman, he was even more angry and had to go outside to cool off. Meanwhile, Haman begged Esther for forgiveness and for mercy and just as he was kneeling beside her, Xerxes returned and thought he was trying to seduce his wife. Haman was arrested and executed on the gallows he had set up for Mordecai. Justice!! As the law ordering the execution of all Jews could not be changed (remember: the law of the Medes and Persians) Xerxes had to make a new law. He made it known throughout his Empire that all the Jews should have the right to prepare for attack on the day that it had already been decided that they would die. They were therefore able to prepare and could take their captors by surprise when they marched in. This happened and in all the cities of the Empire, the King’s governors actually helped the Jews to succeed in battle because they were afraid of Mordecai who by that time had been given Haman’s high office. The Jews were jubilant and there was much celebration. And every year to this very time they hold the Feast of Purim to remember the day they were delivered from destruction. The feast lasts for two days. The first day is one of fasting and prayer to remember the way Esther and Mordecai waited on God for a solution. The second day, they all meet together and listen to the Book of Esther being read. They take along gifts of food and give food to the poor. They also dress up and usually wear masks so as to disguise their appearance. This is because God is not mentioned in the Book of Esther at all. He is disguised but very much present in the story and particularly in the deliverance. God is often in disguise in the story of our lives. He can sometimes be seen at the end when we reflect back on what has happened. How we saw that person just at the right moment and something changed. How a situation which seemed hopeless was turned around and everyone was ok. In today’s gospel, Jesus tells a parable in order to persuade his hearers and followers to pray always and not lose heart. It would have been natural for Mordecai to lose heart when the law was passed to destroy the nation but, instead, he prayed and took stock of the situation. He knew that his niece was the best bet to help as she had become the Queen and had access to Xerxes. Mordecai recognized even though Esther didn’t, that God had placed her in that position and at that time in history to do something great. The persistent widow needed justice and she kept pestering the Judge until he gave her what she needed. We can pester God in the same way for what we need, for ourselves and our families, for our nation and our world. We are told not to give up because as we pray, our will gradually becomes aligned with God’s will and we begin to see what we should really be praying. Sometimes God does not show Himself or His will when we pray about something. Let’s take the situation in Ukraine. We have been praying for an end to the war and for peace since the conflict started. Rather than it ceasing, it seems to be getting worse. Is God not listening as all the Christians are praying together? Is he not listening to the people of Ukraine themselves as they meet in secret, sing hymns and pray with bombs falling around them? Wouldn’t you think that God would be moved by those prayers? Why doesn’t He show Himself and act? The truth is that we don’t know. We know that He has promised to answer prayer when 2 or 3 are gathered together. As we pray, however, we may begin to see other aspects of the war. We see the refugees being re-homed in this and other countries. We see world opinion changing and aid being provided. We know that God walks through the worst of human situations comforting and loving. We know that He changes us, as we pray, into more compassionate and resilient people. He is disguised as those soldiers of both Russia and Ukraine who go out of their safe places to rescue a child or put out a fire. Little by little, He will show Himself in the lives of the President and his government and in us as we watch and wait. Sometimes we will recognize Him at work. At other times, we will not be so sure. But we know He is in control where people keep on praying and offering their lives in His service. Intercessions: Let us offer our prayers to God for the life of the world and for all God’s people in their daily life and work. God, the beginning and end of all things, in your providence and care you watch over all creation; we offer our prayers that in us and in all your people your will may be done, according to your wise and loving purpose in Christ our Lord, Lord, in your mercy: Hear our prayer. We pray for all through whom we receive food and life; for farmers and agricultural workers especially those in our own Benefice, praying for their safety and good weather to ensure a good harvest next year; as you have so ordered life that we depend on each other, enable us by your grace to seek the well-being of others before our own. Lord, in your mercy: Hear our prayer. We pray for all engaged in research to safeguard crops against disease, and to produce abundant life among those who hunger and whose lives are at risk. Prosper the work of their hands and the searching of their minds, that their labour may be for the welfare of all. Lord, in your mercy: hear our prayer. We pray for all governments and aid agencies, and those areas of the world where there is disaster, drought and starvation. We continue to pray for Ukraine and other trouble spots in our world. By the grace of your Spirit, touch our hearts and the hearts of all who live in comfortable plenty, and make us wise stewards of your gifts. Lord, in your mercy: Hear our prayer. We pray for those who are ill, remembering those in hospital and nursing homes and all who are known to us, particularly ……… We pray for all who care for them. Give skill and understanding to all who work for their well-being. Lord, in your mercy: Hear our prayer. We remember those who have died, and those we entrust to your eternal love in the hope of resurrection to new life. Lord, in your mercy: Hear our prayer. We offer ourselves to your service, asking that by the Spirit at work in us others may receive a rich harvest of love and joy and peace. Lord, in your mercy: Hear our prayer God of grace, as you are ever at work in your creation, to fulfil your wise and loving purpose in us and in all for whom we pray, that with them and in all that you have made, your glory may be revealed and the whole earth give praise to you, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Merciful Father, accept these prayers for the sake of your Son, our Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen The Peace: We are the body of Christ. In the one Spirit we were all baptized into one body. Let us then pursue all that makes for peace and builds up our common life. The peace of the Lord be always with you. And also with you. The Lord’s Prayer: Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come; thy will be done; on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation; but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, the power and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen. Final Prayer: We praise and thank you, O Christ, for this sacred feast; for here we receive you, here the memory of your passion is renewed, here our minds are filled with grace, and here a pledge of future glory is given, when we shall feast at that table where you reign with all your saints for ever. Amen The Blessing: The peace of God, which passes all understanding, keep your hearts and minds in the knowledge and love of God, and of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord; And the blessing of God Almighty, the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit, be among you and remain with you always. Amen

+ In the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. Amen The Greeting: Grace, mercy and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ be with you and also with you. Prayer of Preparation: Almighty God, to whom all hearts are open, all desires known, and from whom no secrets are hidden: cleanse the thoughts of our hearts by the inspiration of your Holy Spirit that we may perfectly love you and worthily magnify your holy name; through Christ our lord. Amen. The Gloria: Glory to God in the highest, and peace to his people on earth. Lord God, heavenly King, almighty God and Father, we worship you, we give you thanks, we praise you for your glory. Lord Jesus Christ, only Son of the father, Lord God, Lamb of God, you take away the sin of the world: have mercy on us; you are seated at the right hand of the Father: receive our prayer. For you alone are the Holy One, you alone are the Lord, you alone are the Most High, Jesus Christ, with the Holy Spirit, in the glory of God, the Father. Amen The Collect – 17th Sunday after Trinity Almighty God, you have made us for yourself, and our hearts are restless till they find their rest in you: pour your love into our hearts and draw us to yourself, and so bring us at last to your heavenly city where we shall see you face to face; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, who is alive and reigns with you , in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen Readings: Esther 5:1-14 5 On the third day Esther put on her royal robes and stood in the inner court of the palace, in front of the king’s hall. The king was sitting on his royal throne in the hall, facing the entrance. 2 When he saw Queen Esther standing in the court, he was pleased with her and held out to her the gold sceptre that was in his hand. So Esther approached and touched the tip of the sceptre. 3 Then the king asked, “What is it, Queen Esther? What is your request? Even up to half the kingdom, it will be given you.” 4 “If it pleases the king,” replied Esther, “let the king, together with Haman, come today to a banquet I have prepared for him.” 5 “Bring Haman at once,” the king said, “so that we may do what Esther asks.” So, the king and Haman went to the banquet Esther had prepared. 6 As they were drinking wine, the king again asked Esther, “Now what is your petition? It will be given you. And what is your request? Even up to half the kingdom, it will be granted.” 7 Esther replied, “My petition and my request is this: 8 If the king regards me with favour and if it pleases the king to grant my petition and fulfil my request, let the king and Haman come tomorrow to the banquet I will prepare for them. Then I will answer the king’s question.” 9 Haman went out that day happy and in high spirits. But when he saw Mordecai at the king’s gate and observed that he neither rose nor showed fear in his presence, he was filled with rage against Mordecai. 10 Nevertheless, Haman restrained himself and went home. Calling together his friends and Zeresh, his wife, 11 Haman boasted to them about his vast wealth, his many sons, and all the ways the king had honoured him and how he had elevated him above the other nobles and officials. 12 “And that’s not all,” Haman added. “I’m the only person Queen Esther invited to accompany the king to the banquet she gave. And she has invited me along with the king tomorrow. 13 But all this gives me no satisfaction as long as I see that Jew Mordecai sitting at the king’s gate.” 14 His wife Zeresh and all his friends said to him, “Have a pole set up, reaching to a height of fifty cubits, and ask the king in the morning to have Mordecai impaled on it. Then go with the king to the banquet and enjoy yourself.” This suggestion delighted Haman, and he had the pole set up. 2 Timothy 2: 8-15 8 Remember Jesus Christ, raised from the dead, descended from David. This is my gospel, 9 for which I am suffering even to the point of being chained like a criminal. But God’s word is not chained. 10 Therefore I endure everything for the sake of the elect, that they too may obtain the salvation that is in Christ Jesus, with eternal glory. 11 Here is a trustworthy saying: If we died with him, we will also live with him; 12 if we endure, we will also reign with him. If we disown him, he will also disown us; 13 if we are faithless, he remains faithful, for he cannot disown himself. 14 Keep reminding God’s people of these things. Warn them before God against quarrelling about words; it is of no value, and only ruins those who listen. 15 Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth. Luke 17: 11-19 11 Now on his way to Jerusalem, Jesus travelled along the border between Samaria and Galilee. 12 As he was going into a village, ten men who had leprosy met him. They stood at a distance 13 and called out in a loud voice, “Jesus, Master, have pity on us!” 14 When he saw them, he said, “Go, show yourselves to the priests.” And as they went, they were cleansed. 15 One of them, when he saw he was healed, came back, praising God in a loud voice. 16 He threw himself at Jesus’ feet and thanked him—and he was a Samaritan. 17 Jesus asked, “Were not all ten cleansed? Where are the other nine? 18 Has no one returned to give praise to God except this foreigner?” 19 Then he said to him, “Rise and go; your faith has made you well.” Homily: Last week, we left our story of Esther and King Xerxes where Esther and all her Jewish friends had decided to spend three days: fasting and praying. If you remember, they were in the midst of an awful situation. Haman, one of the King’s officials, had been to the King and deceived him into passing a law whereby all the Jews in the Persian Empire would be destroyed. Esther’s uncle, Mordecai, had asked Esther to intervene and try to save the nation by petitioning the King to try and stop the slaughter of their people. We don’t hear the full solution today. We will have to wait until next week for that, but today we begin to see what God asks Esther to do and how it affects the situation as it proceeds. So, let’s look at the two main characters in the chapter we have read today. First of all, there is Haman and if we were at a pantomime just now, we would be giving a thumbs down and booing loudly. Haman is a thoroughly evil character. You will remember that all this started because the King had promoted Haman to the office of one of his chief advisers. And the whole thing had gone totally to Haman’s head. He commanded everyone to bow to him every time they saw him. Mordecai was not going to do that because he was a good Jew who only bowed to God. It was at this point that Mordecai was in fact outed as a Jew. He had kept the fact secret and told Esther also not to tell anyone. Haman was a very angry man and when Mordecai refused to bow to him, he thought up the plot to not only have Mordecai killed, which we might think was bad enough, but the whole Jewish race within the Empire. Today we learn more about Haman’s character. He is extremely proud and boasts constantly about his position. You know the saying: “pride goes before a fall”? Well, we have a good example of that here. Esther’s plan was, first of all, to disarm her husband and Haman, so she invited them both to a banquet. As we know from the first week of our study of the book, Xerxes liked banquets – a lot. He let them run on for weeks at a time. So, he was pleased to be getting invited to a banquet given by Esther. And for Haman, it just fueled his sense of importance. He told his wife that only he along with the King has been invited to Esther’s banquet. And then she used the first banquet to invite them to another, the next day. Haman again was the only person going there with the King. So, at the news of the second banquet Haman considered his life and his position and said that the only thing wrong in his world at present was that Mordecai wouldn’t bow to him. His wife said: “well, have him hung on a pole and then you can go and enjoy yourself with him out of the way”. There’s our first character and not a very pleasant one. Then we have Esther. We know from last week that Esther could be in quite a bit of danger and in fact could lose her life helping Mordecai and her people. No one is allowed to just go to the King and ask for an audience. They have to wait to be summoned by him. Esther, herself, had not seen the King for a month even though she was married to him. He had many other wives and so she may have considered that she should just keep her head down and wait until it was her turn again. However, she and the other Jews had just spent three days waiting on God and fasting and it had given her a new courage. She knew that she might die but her Empire-wide family was at stake if she did not act. We see the providence of God at work as she walked into the King’s presence and he extended his sceptre towards her: bidding her welcome. Her faithfulness had paid off. The King was delighted to accept her invitation to her banquet and he was so in love with her that he promised her up to half of his Kingdom if she just asked for it. The choice before us is often whether to follow what we want to do or whether to, first of all, try to find out what God wants and then do it. Sometimes we see other people who are very caught up in their own views of who they are and how they think they deserve to be treated because of high office or who they have been born to be. We hear of film stars and musicians who are really not very nice people when we find out what goes on behind closed doors or we hear how they have treated their staff. We as followers of Jesus, however, are called to be different. Just as a stick of rock has Bridlington or Blackpool running through it from end to end, we are called to have the attributes of God running through us. Timothy says some quite hard things in our epistle for today: He says: “If we endure, we will also reign with him; If we deny him, he will also deny us; If we are faithless, he remains faithful- For he cannot deny himself”. As long as we try in our endeavours to serve and worship God, he will remain close to us and faithful to our attempts. If we give up, however, and start behaving like a present-day Haman with only thoughts for ourselves, God will not answer our prayers. We will need to show the kind of dedication which Esther and the other Jews showed by spending time fasting and praying for our future to be shown to us. God can and has saved his people: the Jews on many occasions. He can and has and does save us from ourselves when we turn back to him. Intercessions: Let us pray to God, the Lord of the Harvest, that he will bring to fruition all that he desires for his creation. Lord of creation, we see that the fields are ripe for harvesting: we pray for your Church and for Graham, Alan and Jane our Bishops that it may be ready to gather fruit for eternal life. We pray for the church in this village of Thompson and in our Benefice, giving thanks for God’s guiding and provision this year and since we came into being. Lord of the harvest, in your mercy. Hear our prayer. You have created the universe by your eternal Word, and have blessed humankind in giving us dominion over the earth: we pray for the world, that we may honour and share its resources, and live in reverence for the creation and in harmony with one another. We pray for those countries where the harvest has failed this year and people are starving. We pray for those who have no food or homes because they are fleeing corrupt powers. Lord of the harvest, in your mercy. Hear our prayer. Your Son has promised that the Spirit will lead us into all truth; we pray for the community in which you have set us, for one another and for ourselves, that we may bring forth the fruit of the Spirit in love and joy and peace. We thank you for all the activities in our villages as our lives all continue to get back to normal. Lord of the harvest, in your mercy. Hear our prayer. You have given your people a rich land, yet by sin we made a world of suffering and sorrow: we pray for those who bear the weight of affliction, that they may come to share the life of wholeness and plenty. We pray today for …….. Lord of the harvest, in your mercy. Hear our prayer. Your Son Jesus Christ is the firstfruits of the resurrection and will reap the harvest of the departed at the end of time: we pray that he will gather us all together with those who have gone before into the banquet of the age to come. Lord of the harvest, in your mercy. Hear our prayer. Source of all life and giver of all that is good, hear our prayers and grant us all that is in accordance with your will; Merciful Father, accept these prayers for the sake of your Son, our Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen The Peace: We are the body of Christ. In the one Spirit we were all baptized into one body. Let us then pursue all that makes for peace and builds up our common life. The peace of the Lord be always with you. And also with you. The Lord’s Prayer: Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come; thy will be done; on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation; but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, the power and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen. Final Prayer: Lord, we pray that your grace may always precede and follow us, and make us continually to be given to all good works; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen The Blessing: The peace of God, which passes all understanding, keep your hearts and minds in the knowledge and love of God, and of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord; And the blessing of God Almighty, the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit, be among you and remain with you always. Amen

16th Sunday after Trinity + In the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. Amen The Greeting: Grace, mercy and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ be with you and also with you. Prayer of Preparation: Almighty God, to whom all hearts are open, all desires known, and from whom no secrets are hidden: cleanse the thoughts of our hearts by the inspiration of your Holy Spirit that we may perfectly love you and worthily magnify your holy name; through Christ our lord. Amen. The Gloria: Glory to God in the highest, and peace to his people on earth. Lord God, heavenly King, almighty God and Father, we worship you, we give you thanks, we praise you for your glory. Lord Jesus Christ, only Son of the father, Lord God, Lamb of God, you take away the sin of the world: have mercy on us; you are seated at the right hand of the Father: receive our prayer. For you alone are the Holy One, you alone are the Lord, you alone are the Most High, Jesus Christ, with the Holy Spirit, in the glory of God, the Father. Amen The Collect – 16th Sunday after Trinity O Lord, we beseech you mercifully to hear the prayers of your people who call upon you; and grant that they may both perceive and know what things they ought to do, and also may have grace and power faithfully to fulfil them; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, who is alive and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever Amen Readings: Esther 4: 5-17 5 Then Esther summoned Hathak, one of the king’s eunuchs assigned to attend her, and ordered him to find out what was troubling Mordecai and why. 6 So Hathak went out to Mordecai in the open square of the city in front of the king’s gate. 7 Mordecai told him everything that had happened to him, including the exact amount of money Haman had promised to pay into the royal treasury for the destruction of the Jews. 8 He also gave him a copy of the text of the edict for their annihilation, which had been published in Susa, to show to Esther and explain it to her, and he told him to instruct her to go into the king’s presence to beg for mercy and plead with him for her people. 9 Hathak went back and reported to Esther what Mordecai had said. 10 Then she instructed him to say to Mordecai, 11 “All the king’s officials and the people of the royal provinces know that for any man or woman who approaches the king in the inner court without being summoned the king has but one law: that they be put to death unless the king extends the gold scepter to them and spares their lives. But thirty days have passed since I was called to go to the king.” 12 When Esther’s words were reported to Mordecai, 13 he sent back this answer: “Do not think that because you are in the king’s house you alone of all the Jews will escape. 14 For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father’s family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?” 15 Then Esther sent this reply to Mordecai: 16 “Go, gather together all the Jews who are in Susa, and fast for me. Do not eat or drink for three days, night or day. I and my attendants will fast as you do. When this is done, I will go to the king, even though it is against the law. And if I perish, I perish.” 17 So Mordecai went away and carried out all of Esther’s instructions. 2 Timothy 1: 1-14 1 Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, in keeping with the promise of life that is in Christ Jesus, 2 To Timothy, my dear son: Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord. 3 I thank God, whom I serve, as my ancestors did, with a clear conscience, as night and day I constantly remember you in my prayers. 4 Recalling your tears, I long to see you, so that I may be filled with joy. 5 I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also. 6 For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands. 7 For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline. 8 So do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord or of me his prisoner. Rather, join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God. 9 He has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time, 10 but it has now been revealed through the appearing of our Saviour, Christ Jesus, who has destroyed death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel. 11 And of this gospel I was appointed a herald and an apostle and a teacher. 12 That is why I am suffering as I am. Yet this is no cause for shame, because I know whom I have believed, and am convinced that he is able to guard what I have entrusted to him until that day. 13 What you heard from me, keep as the pattern of sound teaching, with faith and love in Christ Jesus. 14 Guard the good deposit that was entrusted to you—guard it with the help of the Holy Spirit who lives in us. Luke 17: 5-10 5 The apostles said to the Lord, “Increase our faith!” 6 He replied, “If you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mulberry tree, ‘Be uprooted and planted in the sea,’ and it will obey you. 7 “Suppose one of you has a servant ploughing or looking after the sheep. Will he say to the servant when he comes in from the field, ‘Come along now and sit down to eat’? 8 Won’t he rather say, ‘Prepare my supper, get yourself ready and wait on me while I eat and drink; after that you may eat and drink’? 9 Will he thank the servant because he did what he was told to do? 10 So you also, when you have done everything you were told to do, should say, ‘We are unworthy servants; we have only done our duty.’” Homily: We are now in our fourth week of studying the Book of Esther. Esther: a young Jewish orphan has become Queen of Persia. We are told that she was beautiful and had a lovely character and that Xerxes the King was drawn to her out of all the young and beautiful girls who had been prepared for him. Esther was a Jew, but her Uncle Mordecai told her not to say anything about that as Jews were not really understood and even feared at that time. Last week we saw the trouble that Mordecai got himself in when he refused to bow down to Haman who had recently been appointed to high office in the King’s government. Haman’s anger was so strong that he went to the King and a law was passed that not just Mordecai but all Jews in the Persian Empire were to be destroyed and a date was set for that to take place. Today our reading opens with Esther sending one of her servants out of the palace to find out why Mordecai is wearing sackcloth and ashes and obviously in mourning. Mordecai explained and told the servant to go back to Esther and plead with her to get the King to change the law. We know from our studies already that the laws of the Medes and Persian could not be changed once they were passed and now we see a new law. No one was allowed to enter the King’s presence unless they had been summoned. Those who did so were put to death unless the King extended his royal sceptre towards them and let them live. Mordecai was a man who was faithful to God and knew that God’s plan did not include having all Jews destroyed. He knew that their best hope was his own niece whom the King loved. Esther was obviously a bit reluctant to risk her own life at first but then sent back a message asking Mordecai to get together all the Jews in the city and to fast and pray for three days to seek God on the way forward. She said that she and her attendants would all fast too and then she would go to the King whatever that would eventually mean for her. The verse that strikes me in this passage and that appears to propel Esther into action is Mordecai’s word to her: “And who knows that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this”. We have just witnessed in our nation a real desire on the part of millions of people to be a part of history. I was astounded to learn that 4 billion, yes 4 billion, people watched the Queen’s funeral on television. I don’t have a TV licence at the moment. I go through phases of watching TV and then watching other things. Even the BBC wanted us to be part of history. They waived the need for a licence for the period from the Queen’s death to after the funeral. I was on duty as Day Chaplain at Norwich Cathedral on the afternoon of the Queen’s funeral. The live stream attracted possibly a hundred people who wanted to watch with others. As the afternoon wore on, I was aware that there seemed to be more adults with babies and small children, even in baby carriers coming in. Then there were groups of teenagers walking around the building. Those babies and young children will not remember the occasion, but they will be told that they were there. This desire based on the life of one woman compelled thousands of people to want to queue for hours to spend a moment in her presence. Its an interesting thought that we were all born for the time we live in because we have a job to do in this time. I spent many years believing that I was called back to ministry as a priest, but I was reluctant and very slow to do anything about it. It was in 2019 that I began to explore my vocation and do some training. I was two weeks into a church placement in Swaffham when a global pandemic sent us all into lockdown and closed all the churches. I had been ordained Deacon in St Paul’s Cathedral: amazing architecture, amazing music from the most talented organist, pomp and ceremony. I was ordained priest in Mattishall church with 10 guests all socially distanced and wearing face coverings with half the church furniture piled up and stacked in a corner. I have already spoken a lot about the death of Queen Eizabeth but it was the last thing I expected to leading churches through. We were all born for this time. We are now, whatever our ages, living in a time of acute climate change. Within our nation we have just seen a new Prime Minister appointed and are beginning to see how she will govern. Within our families we have raised children and now have grandchildren and great grandchildren. We are watching how they develop and what they do with their lives. And all the time we choose whether to speak and act or whether to just wait and see. We have a responsibility in our day and age just as Esther did. Sometimes a word here or there will change a situation and if we don’t speak it, the task will either fall to someone else or will never happen. As Christians, we also have a responsibility to speak out or do something differently. It’s always good to take time to think about our actions before we do them. Esther and her court and all the Jews waited on God by fasting and praying for three days before they came back together to decide on a plan. We are people of prayer. It’s in our Christian DNA. Sometimes it’s good to meet together with others to talk and pray through a situation that may be bothering us in our family, our work or wider. Jesus says: “where two or three are gathered together in my name, there I am in the midst of them”. There is added power in praying with others as we know from praying in church on Sundays. We were all born for this time. Maybe not to save a nation but ….. you never know! Intercessions: Let us offer our prayers to God for the life of the world and for all God’s people in their daily life and work. God, the beginning and end of all things, in your providence and care you watch over all creation; we offer our prayers that in us and in all your people your will may be done, according to your wise and loving purpose in Christ our Lord, Lord, in your mercy: Hear our prayer. We pray for all through whom we receive food and life; for farmers and agricultural workers especially those in our own Benefice, for packers, distributors and company boards; as you have so ordered life that we depend on each other, enable us by your grace to seek the well-being of others before our own. Lord, in your mercy: Hear our prayer. We pray for all engaged in research to safeguard crops against disease, and to produce abundant life among those who hunger and whose lives are at risk. Prosper the work of their hands and the searching of their minds, that their labour may be for the welfare of all. Lord, in your mercy: hear our prayer. We pray for all governments and aid agencies, and those areas of the world where there is disaster, drought and starvation. We continue to pray for Afghanistan. By the grace of your Spirit, touch our hearts and the hearts of all who live in comfortable plenty, and make us wise stewards of your gifts. Lord, in your mercy: Hear our prayer. We pray for those who are ill, remembering those in hospital and nursing homes and all who are known to us, particularly ……… We pray for all who care for them. Give skill and understanding to all who work for their well-being. Lord, in your mercy: Hear our prayer. We remember those who have died, whom we entrust to your eternal love in the hope of resurrection to new life. Lord, in your mercy: Hear our prayer. We offer ourselves to your service, asking that by the Spirit at work in us others may receive a rich harvest of love and joy and peace. Lord, in your mercy: Hear our prayer God of grace, as you are ever at work in your creation, to fulfil your wise and loving purpose in us and in all for whom we pray, that with them and in all that you have made, your glory may be revealed and the whole earth give praise to you, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Merciful Father, accept these prayers for the sake of your Son, our Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen The Peace: We are the body of Christ. In the one Spirit we were all baptized into one body. Let us then pursue all that makes for peace and builds up our common life. The peace of the Lord be always with you. And also with you. The Lord’s Prayer: Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come; thy will be done; on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation; but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, the power and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen. Final Prayer: Almighty God, you have taught us through your Son that love is the fulfilling of the law: grant that we may love you with our whole heart and our neighbours as ourselves; through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen The Blessing: The peace of God, which passes all understanding, keep your hearts and minds in the knowledge and love of God, and of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord; And the blessing of God Almighty, the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit, be among you and remain with you always. Amen

15th Sunday after Trinity + In the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. Amen The Greeting : Grace, mercy and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ be with you and also with you. Prayer of Preparation: Almighty God, to whom all hearts are open, all desires known, and from whom no secrets are hidden: cleanse the thoughts of our hearts by the inspiration of your Holy Spirit that we may perfectly love you and worthily magnify your holy name; through Christ our lord. Amen. The Gloria: Glory to God in the highest, and peace to his people on earth. Lord God, heavenly King, almighty God and Father, we worship you, we give you thanks, we praise you for your glory. Lord Jesus Christ, only Son of the father, Lord God, Lamb of God, you take away the sin of the world: have mercy on us; you are seated at the right hand of the Father: receive our prayer. For you alone are the Holy One, you alone are the Lord, you alone are the Most High, Jesus Christ, with the Holy Spirit, in the glory of God, the Father. Amen The Collect – 15th Sunday after Trinity God, who in generous mercy sent the Holy Spirit upon your Church in the burning fire of your love: grant that your people may be fervent in the fellowship of the gospel that, always abiding in you, they may be found steadfast in faith and active in service; through Jesus Christ your Son, our Lord, who is alive and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen Readings: Esther 3:1-11 3 After these events, King Xerxes honoured Haman son of Hammedatha, the Agagite, elevating him and giving him a seat of honour higher than that of all the other nobles. 2 All the royal officials at the king’s gate knelt down and paid honour to Haman, for the king had commanded this concerning him. But Mordecai would not kneel down or pay him honour. 3 Then the royal officials at the king’s gate asked Mordecai, “Why do you disobey the king’s command?” 4 Day after day they spoke to him but he refused to comply. Therefore they told Haman about it to see whether Mordecai’s behaviour would be tolerated, for he had told them he was a Jew. 5 When Haman saw that Mordecai would not kneel down or pay him honour, he was enraged. 6 Yet having learned who Mordecai’s people were, he scorned the idea of killing only Mordecai. Instead Haman looked for a way to destroy all Mordecai’s people, the Jews, throughout the whole kingdom of Xerxes. 7 In the twelfth year of King Xerxes, in the first month, the month of Nisan, the pur (that is, the lot) was cast in the presence of Haman to select a day and month. And the lot fell on the twelfth month, the month of Adar. 8 Then Haman said to King Xerxes, “There is a certain people dispersed among the peoples in all the provinces of your kingdom who keep themselves separate. Their customs are different from those of all other people, and they do not obey the king’s laws; it is not in the king’s best interest to tolerate them. 9 If it pleases the king, let a decree be issued to destroy them, and I will give ten thousand talents of silver to the king’s administrators for the royal treasury.” 10 So the king took his signet ring from his finger and gave it to Haman son of Hammedatha, the Agagite, the enemy of the Jews. 11 “Keep the money,” the king said to Haman, “and do with the people as you please.” 1 Timothy 6:6-19 6 But godliness with contentment is great gain. 7 For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. 8 But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that. 9 Those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. 10 For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs. 11 But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness. 12 Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses. 13 In the sight of God, who gives life to everything, and of Christ Jesus, who while testifying before Pontius Pilate made the good confession, I charge you 14 to keep this command without spot or blame until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ, 15 which God will bring about in his own time—God, the blessed and only Ruler, the King of kings and Lord of lords, 16 who alone is immortal and who lives in unapproachable light, whom no one has seen or can see. To him be honour and might forever. Amen. 17 Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. 18 Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. 19 In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life. Luke 16: 19-31 19 “There was a rich man who was dressed in purple and fine linen and lived in luxury every day. 20 At his gate was laid a beggar named Lazarus, covered with sores 21 and longing to eat what fell from the rich man’s table. Even the dogs came and licked his sores. 22 “The time came when the beggar died and the angels carried him to Abraham’s side. The rich man also died and was buried. 23 In Hades, where he was in torment, he looked up and saw Abraham far away, with Lazarus by his side. 24 So he called to him, ‘Father Abraham, have pity on me and send Lazarus to dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue, because I am in agony in this fire.’ 25 “But Abraham replied, ‘Son, remember that in your lifetime you received your good things, while Lazarus received bad things, but now he is comforted here and you are in agony. 26 And besides all this, between us and you a great chasm has been set in place, so that those who want to go from here to you cannot, nor can anyone cross over from there to us.’ 27 “He answered, ‘Then I beg you, father, send Lazarus to my family, 28 for I have five brothers. Let him warn them, so that they will not also come to this place of torment.’ 29 “Abraham replied, ‘They have Moses and the Prophets; let them listen to them.’ 30 “‘No, father Abraham,’ he said, ‘but if someone from the dead goes to them, they will repent.’ 31 “He said to him, ‘If they do not listen to Moses and the Prophets, they will not be convinced even if someone rises from the dead.’” Homily: For those of you who haven’t been to church for a couple of weeks, I will give you a brief recap on the Book of Esther which we are studying over this time of Harvest in our villages. In the 400s BC the Jews in Jerusalem were defeated by the Persians and taken off into exile to Persia. There they made the best of their time away from their homes and became successful businessmen. When they got an opportunity to go back home, many of them chose to stay because they were doing well for themselves. The book opens with King Xerxes holding a banquet and commanding that his wife Vashti leave the party she was hosting so that he could show her off to his guests. Vashti did not think this was a good idea, so she stayed where she was. Xerxes got angry and banished her forever from his Kingdom. So, we then see him searching out all the young and beautiful girls in the Kingdom in order to choose a new Queen. Esther, who the book is named after, was the adopted daughter of her cousin Mordecai and eventually she was chosen to be Queen. The story opens today with the King appointing a rascal called Haman to a senior position in his government. Haman soon lets this new appointment go to his head and starts telling people that they have to bow in his presence. You will remember that Mordecai told Esther not to tell anyone that she was a Jew because even though the Jews were respected for what they had achieved in Persia, the Persians were very wary of them because they practiced what to them were strange religious acts and they knew that they were so close to one another that if they decided to rise up against the governing power they would be able to overthrow them. Mordecai and Esther, however, still practiced their faith at home and were always true to its teachings. The first time that Haman and Mordecai met after Haman had said that everyone had to bow to him, Mordecai refused to bow. The first commandment states “you shall have no other god before me”. The Jews did not bow to anyone, particularly those who had kept them captive. We know that Mordecai used to go to the city gate every day to find out how Esther was doing in the King’s Hareem. The city gate was the place where the men all gossiped together and held a law court and made speeches. It was easy to find out what was going on in the Royal Palace and make sure Esther was safe. The men there kept saying to him: “you know, you need to obey Haman’s order to bow otherwise you will be in real trouble”. So, Mordecai told them why he would not bow. That he was a Jew and kept the commandments. Before long someone of course had told Haman that the reason why Mordecai did not bow was because of his religious views. Haman who we are beginning to realise was a man who was really fond of his own importance, decided in that moment that he would not only destroy Mordecai for this seemingly disrespect of his office but he would destroy all the Jews, wherever they were living in the lands around. He cemented this plan by choosing a date for the slaughter and persuading Xerxes that it was a good idea. As we learnt last week, a law once passed by the Medes and Persians could not be revoked. What was to be done? We learn more next week. Timothy in his letter today says that if we are men (and women) of God, we are to shun love of earthly pleasures and pursue godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness. There are occasions for all of us when we have to stand up for what we believe and challenge the injustice we see in our world and in our own circle. Christianity is not a passive religion. Our gospel today is one of the clearest indications of how we are to act towards one another and the dangers of not doing that. The Rich man just stepped over the beggar who was lying outside his gate. He saw him but he chose not to help. Mordecai was clear about where he stood in the matter of religious observance. He would not bow to another human being because he feared God’s judgement more than man’s. He did not retract his stance even when his whole nation was threatened. We are to pursue something more longer lasting and more permanent than the world can give us. In the face of opposition, we need to be sure of what we are aligning ourselves with, then go for it. The test as to whether what we are standing up for is in line with God’s plan or not is to test what we propose to do against the New Testament. Paul often talks about the serious sins which are to be fought against. Gossip, lying, malice and wickedness are mentioned in Paul’s letters more than once. If we engage in these practices, then we are not building up a Christian community. We are tearing it down. We see the battle between good and evil beginning to play out in the book of Esther. Haman was a man duped by love of power who then exerted his authority on those he was in charge of. Those people who did not give him the honour he imagined was due to him, became expendable and not only them but their families and friends and ultimately a whole nation. We have unfortunately seen that kind of evil in our not too distant history and we see it now in countries not that far away from us. Mordecai shows us the other side. The man who does not return evil for evil and until he is challenged, he goes about his life quietly observing his faith and caring for his family. When challenged, however, we don’t read of him lashing out or being offensive even though he could be excused for that. We read of him continuing to observe God’s word as quoted in the Scriptures. Like the Christian martyrs, he does not retract anything which would show others that he is not a true believer. He does as God commands his followers to do. Intercessions: In the power of the Spirit and in union with Christ, let us pray to the Father. Almighty God, our heavenly Father, you promised through your Son, Jesus Christ to hear us when we pray in faith. We pray for your Church worldwide, particularly in areas where it faces persecution, and for the Church here in Griston and all it does to serve and promote your mission. We pray for all the churches in this Benefice, for the churchwardens and members of the PCCs. We give thanks today for the harvest safely gathered in, for all those who work on the land and all who are involved in food production in order to bring food to our tables. Strengthen Graham, Alan and Jane our Bishops and all your Church in the service of Christ, that those who confess your name may be united in your truth, live together in your love and reveal your glory in the world. Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer. We pray for our world and those areas where there is conflict and unrest. We continue to pray for the people of Ukraine and all refugees fleeing that country. We pray for those whose crops have failed this year that they may be able to find enough food for their needs. We pray for all those who hold positions of authority in national and local government and for all managers and leaders of businesses and in the professions. We pray for our Royal Family as they grieve the passing of our late Queen Elizabeth: Bless and guide Charles our King; give wisdom to all in authority, and direct this and every nation in the ways of justice and of peace; that we may honour one another, and seek the common good. Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer. We pray for these villages and for our witness through our prayers and deeds to all who live within them. For the children and all who work in our schools and for the residents and staff of Thorp House. Give grace to us, our families and friends, and to all our neighbours, that we may serve Christ in one another, and love as he loves us. Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer. We pray for all those in physical, emotional, mental or spiritual need. For those who never ask for the help they need. For all agencies working to alleviate suffering. Comfort and heal all those who suffer in body, mind or spirit, especially ….. give them courage and hope in their troubles; and bring them the joy of your salvation. Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer. Hear us as we remember those who have died in the faith of Christ, remembering our own loved ones who have departed this life. According to your promises, grant us with them a share in your eternal kingdom. Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer. Rejoicing in the fellowship of St Peter and Paul and all your saints, We commend ourselves and the whole creation to your unfailing love. Merciful Father, accept these prayers for the sake of your Son, our Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen The Peace: We are the body of Christ. In the one Spirit we were all baptized into one body. Let us then pursue all that makes for peace and builds up our common life. The peace of the Lord be always with you. And also with you. The Lord’s Prayer: Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come; thy will be done; on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation; but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, the power and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen. Final Prayer: Keep, O Lord, your Church, with your perpetual mercy; and, because without you our human failty cannot but fall, keep us ever by your help from all things hurtful, and lead us to all things profitable to our salvation; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen The Blessing: The peace of God, which passes all understanding, keep your hearts and minds in the knowledge and love of God, and of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord; And the blessing of God Almighty, the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit, be among you and remain with you always. Amen