It’s that time of year again.
On Friday I saw that Aldi is selling dumbbells. I guess they know that after a few weeks of chocolate, cheese and crisps, we might need an encouragement to get back in shape. Or at least a different shape than we are in.
On Saturday, I read the paper’s section devoted to men’s health. Apparently, we need someone to talk to, something to live for, and ways to stay positive. No surprises there then.
It’s one of the reasons that researchers have known for a while that being a Christian and meeting together with other Christians is good for your health.
But knowing something and committing to it are two different things. We need to go for it. Otherwise, we will end up being the sorts of people who buy the dumbbells and then trip over them every morning because they are lying around in the bedroom unused, unwanted, until in March we send them to the charity shop.
So how can you continue to develop a healthy life – especially at this time which will need all the resilience we have.
- Build friendships. If you feel safe enough, arrange to walk with one other person from time to time. Take the initiative – you might not know them well, but if you walk and chat, you’ll know them a bit better.
- Keep logging on. I know it’s not the wholly satisfying. But it is a way of us staying together. A couple of times a week we get a chance to say that we belong to one another. And when you type a prayer, a thought, a response or speak about something, it’s a way that you offer something that others can benefit from.
- Keep praying. Offer the day to God. Lay it out before him – what will happen, what could happen, what you fear will happen. Begin the day by saying: ‘Here I am, this is your day, and I am yours.’ Stay there until you sense his presence again.
And pray for others. I think one of the gifts we offer one another is the promise to pray for one another and then tell them when we have. - Commit to reading the Bible. Do it in ways that help you. Last year I used a scheme that took me through the whole Bible in one year. It takes about 25 mins per day. And if you miss a day, don’t worry, just go on with the next. You can get all the details here: https://bibleinoneyear.org/
If you prefer to learn by watching as well as reading, this might help: https://bibleproject.com/reading-plans/
This year I’m going to go slower – read through different books of the Bible more slowly.
However you do it, do it. And if you need help to start – ask.
This year we are going to need the strength that God can give to live well. That won’t happen just by hoping. I’m going to need to keep doing the things that I know will make the difference. And I need to start now.
As well as lifting those dumbbells.
Interview
It’s always interesting to know how people end up where they are. This week is a chance to hear Ian’s story. Hope you enjoy getting to know him better.
We are getting to the point where we need people to be willing to be interviewed – either again if it was a while ago, or for the first time. Let Neil know if you are willing to give it a go. Thanks
Our Gatherings
1. Coffee Morning: Wednesday at 10.30am.
A Wednesday morning is the ideal time to catch up with people, have a brew, even involve yourself with a quiz.
Meeting link: https://zoom.us/j/92029544365?pwd=UFRFZ1V0RElEeFlKdDB2Y0UySjR6UT09
2. Prayer Meeting: Thursday 7 January at 7.30pm
This week we are going to join in with Elim’s national prayer day. Join our National Day of Prayer
This is the invitation:
At the start of the new year, God invites us to participate together in His plans and purpose through prayer. As we head into 2021, let’s take hold of this invitation and promise, ‘Call to Me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.’ Jeremiah 33:3
The prayer meeting will be on Elim’s Youtube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A9vBk_y06lw
And their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/elimpentecostalchurches/posts/10158959601857206
There is an early morning prayer meeting at 7.30-8 if you want to join in with that as well.
3. Prayer Meeting: Friday
Contact Corinne Baines or Gill Oldham or Neil and they’ll make sure you are able to connect.
4. Sunday Service
Zoom Link: https://us04web.zoom.us/j/836810848
Meeting ID: 836 810 848
And on Salford Elim Church’s YouTube page.
After the service there will be a short Annual Review (on Zoom only) where we take a moment to talk about our life together as church – including thoughts about buildings, The Vine, finances and plans ahead (which are all written in pencil!)
5. Getting Connected with House Groups: Thursday 14 January 7.30pm
Please note the new time.
This will be a great time to come along if you are not part of a small group yet. We will be having a moment to take stock – recognise what is working really well for us, and what we can do to make sure we all keep on growing well together. If this is the year you are going to get involved – come to this evening!
If in doubt
All the links to the meetings are in Church Suite and on the ‘Calendar’ section of our church website: https://www.salfordelimchurch.org/events/
You’re not alone
If you need help and don’t know where to turn, you are always welcome to contact Neil on 07771 558058.
