Dear Friends

A happy and peaceful New Year to each and every one of you. 2008 looms ahead of us with unknown waters through which we have to navigate.

As I reflected over the Christmas period I was very aware of the coming year and in particular our need to have a secure captain to steer our lives and a sound chart to direct our way. (sorry my naval past keeps popping up).

There is no more secure a captain than Jesus Christ whose birth we have just celebrated and whose crucifixion and resurrection we will shortly proclaim. Without Jesus in control of our lives then we will find ourselves steering into dangerous and troubled waters. However it seems to me as I have reflected over the past that a faith in, a belief about, and a commitment to Jesus, needs to be strengthened, and that strengthening can only come from a sure foundation, a foundation experienced in Holy Scripture.

It amazes me how many Christians refuse to take the time to study God's word daily. To read a portion of scripture, preferably with bible notes, like Word for Today or Every Day With Jesus, is an important part of our Christian life and journey. If we do not feed on God's word how on earth can we ever hope to grow in understanding and how on earth do we mature in our knowledge of Jesus and his impact upon our lives.

A large proportion of "Christians" have a bible language of an eleven year old, they make no effort, to study or think about their faith. They live on the assumptions and half learned truths of some bygone Sunday School lessons; half remembered sermons, and glossy television or film productions. Often missing the truth, and as a consequence the blessings.

God did not give us his word just to sit on a shelf in some dusty corner of a room half forgotten and undisturbed. He gave us his word to read, learn and inwardly digest that we may grow into the full measure of Gods plan for our lives and for the world.

There is a vast treasure waiting to be discovered and experienced locked away in the scriptures. The key is a willing heart that will unlock and open the word and feed on the truth of God.

I pray that as we move into the coming year of 2008, it will for many of you be the year of the bible, the year you unlock God's word and read the wonderful truths contained within its pages.

I pray that many of you who do not yet come to Bible Study Groups will give it your consideration. Groups meet at the Vicarage on Tuesday mornings at 9.30am - 10.30am and Wednesday evenings from 8.00pm - 9.30pm, every other week.

Remember a bible that is falling apart is usually read by someone who isn't.

Your friend and vicar,