I was leading a church service recently and thinking about Jesus’ Ascension – when he returned to Heaven to sit on his throne at God’s right hand from where he prays for us all.
In order to illustrate my talk I needed three pairs of my shoes – some old, dirty black trainers, my slippers and my sandals. I had each of these pairs of shoes in a shoe box. As I brought each pair of shoes out of their box there were howls of laughter from the children present. I never did work out what was so funny about my shoes and when I asked the children to explain they just fell about laughing all over again!
I have never pretended to be a fashion aficionado and usually choose my shoes on price and comfort rather than appearance. I don’t think my shoes are particularly dated, but perhaps I’m wrong. Anyway, it was a great chance to look at some of the newer shoes the young people were wearing. It was very apparent that shoe (and indeed every other) fashion changes over time. By contrast, Jesus Christ and the Good News of the Kingdom of Heaven are the same yesterday, today and forever. Whatever happens to fashion in shoes, whatever happens on earth and in our lives Jesus remains the same and loves all of us whatever our fashion sense might be.
Part of the reason I was illustrating my talk with shoes was to remind us all that following Jesus’ Ascension we are now called to “fill his shoes” on earth and to look after those in need in our community. Part of the way the members of St. Peter’s seek to fill Christ’s shoes on earth is through our Community Sunday project, which is on June 12th this year. Instead of having a church service, we spend the day doing small jobs for people around Yaxley who are unable to do the work themselves. If you know anyone who needs help – whether it’s a car wash or a hedge trim – then please contact us and let us know. There is no charge for this – although a cup of tea or glass of squash is always appreciated!
As always, you are all welcome at any of our services at St. Peter’s – details are here or give me a call.
With my prayers.
Jon Randall (Vicar) 01733 240339; vicar@saintpeters.co.uk
Read this article in the Yaxley Gazette.