The Beauty of God’s Creation
Here we nearing the end of January already and it is the 3rd Sunday of the Epiphany (the last Sunday of January). Last week Nicola and I had a wonderful week away. We spent most of the time in Karamea. I have to say it is a stunning place, a great place to enjoy walking on some of the many tracks in the bush. Coincidently the psalm that is set for us to pray and reflect this Sunday on is Psalm 19. This is a psalm that excites our spiritual imagination, our wonder at the natural world. The wonderment that we see and feel in the natural world is yet a glimpse of the greater beauty of God. The psalm lifts us to praise God, the creator of all and then to praise God’s law (wisdom) that is for all of creation. The Psalmist delights in God’s Law as much as the beauty of creation itself as the way God wishes us to live within God’s creation.
The Psalmist has a heartfelt plea that they will, with God’s help, act with integrity. This is only made possible through the succour of God, who creates the perfect beauty and order and way the of living (law). Creation, law and heart are made perfect and united through God in which we are to be active participants. It is in the strength and the purity of the sun which the Psalmist sees as the visible sign of God’s wisdom (which is behind God’s law) that unites all things.
God Bless
From the Vicar
This Sunday, the 4th Sunday of Lent the Gospel reading is that of the Prodigal Son, that great parable that gives us enormous hope and much to ponder.
In early medieval times it was called the “Annunciation of the Lord” or the “Conception of Christ,” indicating its focus as a festival of the Lord.
The church has at its core offered a daily cycle of prayer what is known as the daily office.
Parish Officers
Parish Governance
The executive team of Vicar, churchwardens and treasurer meet constantly on parish business.
Parish Groups
Worship leaders, lay readers, servers, ushers, greeters, flower arrangers, cleaners, counters, intercessors and cup bearers all join together to support the service.
This Sunday, the 4th Sunday of Lent the Gospel reading is that of the Prodigal Son, that great parable that gives us enormous hope and much to ponder.
In early medieval times it was called the “Annunciation of the Lord” or the “Conception of Christ,” indicating its focus as a festival of the Lord.
Community Fair bringing affordable toys, books, china, vintage clothes and more from the Opawa - St Martins Parish.