Faith in a Changed World Antony Mugford DECEMBER 2020
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The Lord will keep you from all harm he will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore. Psalm 121
© Antony Mugford First edition compiled and edited by David White Published by BrancoPrint © Majors Antony & Fiona Mugford The Salvation Army Westgate Guisborough TS14 6AW https://www.salvationarmy.org.uk/guisborough-citadel
01 January 2021
Cover photograph - a view of Guisborough taken from High Cli on 29 December 2020
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My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.
I lift up my eyes to the hills where does my help come from?
Prologue In 2020 the whole world was struck with Coronavirus pandemic that originated in Wuhan, China. Countries were a ected in every way of life as lockdowns were advised and imposed, meaning that normal life could not continue. Business, travel, and family life were severely curtailed with impact on so many activities that were just taken for granted. All expressions of Faith ceased in the traditional rituals and formats; impacting greatly on shared fellowship. Fortunately technolo y was available, and expanded, that allowed some virtual contact during social distancing. New expressions of Faith service blossomed not only to the individual, regional, national and, indeed,international congregations but, perhaps more importantly, also to the many new contacts within the wider communities. The world-wide Salvation Army took virtual reality to its heart. Majors Antony and Fiona Mugford, the Commanding O cers of Guisborough Citadel, UK grasped this opportunity with daily ministry to both the Corps Fellowship and a much wider community via Facebook, YouTube and Zoom; reaching many hundreds of people, not only locally but nationally and internationally. Each Sunday, and other special Christian occasions, online services were also produced. This booklet is a collection of those daily “letters" shared to an audience that remarkably grew exponentially; thus contacting, and helping, many hundreds of people during the Coronavirus lockdown. What an opportunity of witness these ‘letters’ proved to be! Although initially it was never expected that this period would be so extended. We can only hope and pray that the short-term bene t will lead to a longer-term commitment and blessing. David White
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Sunday services
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ach Sunday, rather than having another reading, Majors Antony and Fiona lead online worship, Together in Worship.
These services including Good Friday were added to the Guisborough Salvation Army Church Youtube channel and are all still available; the links being: Sunday 29 March https://youtu.be/odOTyJm9Zdk
Sunday 06 Sept https://YouTube.be/uH_BvCDjC61
Sunday 05 April https://youtu.be/NPog17ifg1Q
Sunday 13 Sept
https://youtu.be/e2Kelrlmevo
Friday 10 April
https://youtu.be/Iw5RMOH31wY
Sunday 20 Sept
https://youtu.be/AskEbymbPml
Sunday 12 April
https://youtu.be/rT_hDb0hVrU
Sunday 27 Sept
https://youtu.be/o3jzHxf-n94
Sunday 19 April https://youtu.be/i1xPyZaCaP4
Sunday 04 Oct
https://youtu.be/ltE4MPBnuZU
Sunday 26 April https://youtu.be/LSTWnPwR0rI
Sunday 11 Oct
https://youtu.be/nr3ON8ldxLo
Sunday 03 May
https://youtu.be/Wq7HW__ODDI
Sunday 18 Oct
https://youtu.be/qC3D1ml76sQ
Sunday 10 May
https://youtu.be/kLCOtac ypo
Sunday 25 Oct
Territorial Congress (see page 5)
Sunday 17 May
https://youtu.be/5st0tT1mTKU
Sunday 01 Nov
https://youtu.be/LH1xhq4vPi0
Sunday 24 May
https://youtu.be/UkONp8OL0io
Sunday 08 Nov
https://youtu.be/8eD3Fk8N_zk
Sunday 31 May
https://youtu.be/t8kzJcsoNOw
Sunday 15 Nov
https://youtu.be/OORDDe8Woik
Sunday 07 June
https://youtu.be/bUkmshG9ktQ
Sunday 22 Nov
https://youtu.be/1jEZul3Rp6Q
Sunday 14 June
https://youtu.be/2U5BemQMD9s
Sunday 29 Nov
https://youtu.be/jlf2JTwcl60
Sunday 21 June
https://youtu.be/r2bUU8JZ_gA
Sunday 06 Dec
https://youtu.be/VzFnYVKEVhc
Sunday 28 June
https://youtu.be/wDH2cTBnTX0
Sunday 13 Dec
https://youtu.be/Xc-y3zyoyJc
Sunday 05 July
https://youtu.be/zTgUJCQ1Zmg
Sunday 20 Dec
https://youtu.be/uh1gGRlg2XM
Sunday 12 July
https://youtu.be/P66ecteLpR4
Christmas Day 25 Dec https://youtu.be/l1liDkxVh74
Sunday 19 July
https://youtu.be/kkiDXn2gZ0w
Sunday 27 Dec
Sunday 26 July
https://youtu.be/FXoJcnctB4k
Sunday 02 Aug
https://youtu.be/VOyQAKXTKBQ
Sunday 30 Aug
https://youtu.be/Ub3aB5zm79g
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Divisional Headquarters (see page 5)
‘LIGHT, LIFE, LOVE’ WAS THE INSPIRING THEME AND FOCUS OF THE SALVATION ARMY’S TERRITORIAL CONGRESS SATURDAY 24 AND SUNDAY 25 OCTOBER 2020. With Chief of the Staff Commissioner Lyndon Buckingham and Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham supported by Commissioners Anthony and Gill Cotterill. There was no Together in Worship on Sunday 24 October, so we invite you to watch the Congress Youtube Saturday and Sunday meetings and share with others seeking to grow in their faith and be equipped to share the good news of God’s love in their lives and local communities. Territorial Commander Commissioner Anthony Cotterill chose the inspiring theme for the Congress weekend after reflecting on the words of General Albert Osborn, found in The Salvation Army Song Book (number 742): Light, life and love are in that healing fountain. All I require to cleanse me and restore, Flow through my soul, redeem its desert places And make a garden there for the Lord I adore. Commissioner Anthony says: “Light, life and love are powerful words that will be reflected in many ways across the weekend. With so much uncertainty in our world, our congress will be an opportunity to be refreshed in God’s presence as we worship, pray and study his word. There will be time to give thanks for who and where we are as a church and to mobilise and equip us for being part of God's plan for his Kingdom here and now. “We are called to be a Salvation Army where God is glori ied and visibly at work, shaping us into disciples of Jesus Christ. If you are ready to ind out more about this life then share in the Congress. And share it with others, too! “Be ready to receive and be open to the speaking of the Spirit. Congress really is a life-changing opportunity to deepen our relationship with God and to introduce someone to the gospel message for the irst time. It is exciting to look ahead and imagine what God has in store!" https://www.youtube.com/user/salvationarmyvideo
On Sunday 27 December 2020 worship was provided and lead by Major Jane Cowell (Divisional Commander), Major Rachel Price (Divisional Of icer for Leadership Development) and Major Wayne Price (Divisional Mission Enabler) https://youtu.be/A3F9dFTEu7A
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01 December 2020
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ello everybody from Major Antony & Major Fiona,
Well, we're o ! Advent Sunday has been and gone, half the population have their Christmas trees up already, most town centres have their lights on, and on December 1st it’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas! People are desperate to get some light into a dismal situation. Oh, but there's been some controversy here in Guisborough. The talk of the town has been Guisborough's Christmas tree and its size. ‘It's not big enough!’ ‘Sack the council!’ ‘Eston's is bigger!’ ‘Redcar's is bigger!’ And it went on. Others replied, ‘It's lovely!’ ‘The lights are beautiful!’ ‘Thank you, Council,’ etc. Well, I had been so intrigued by the reports of this alleged tiny, inadequate tree that I walked the 200 yards from my home to see this 'disappointing' o ering for myself; and seeing how lovely it is had to agree entirely with the positive comments that it really is a delight. It's not big enough, they claimed. It reminds me of the time I decorated our house for Christmas. It was the rst time in our new at after moving from a previous house and the living room was larger so the decorations were a bit more spaced out, I guess; and when the boys came in, one of them said immediately, 'It's not enough!' Being a Christmas softy, I went out and bought more decorations and added to it all. I wanted it to be enough. How much is enough? How big does a tree need to be? Does Guisborough really need one the same size as they've got in Trafalgar Square? Do the lights down the High Street need to rival Blackpool Illuminations? Would that be enough to dispel the darkness? Most people have said how lovely it all is - it really is 'enough'. When Jesus came, he was described as the light that shines in the darkness; but he's not just any light, one light among many, for the Bible says boldly about Jesus, 'The light shines in the darkness and the darkness has not overcome it.' ( John 1 v 5) In other words, the light of Christ is more than enough. The light of Christ is not equal to the darkness, it is greater than the darkness. There is no darkness that can push back the light that shines into it. The world can be a dark place. Speaking honestly, the heart can be a dark place too if we consider our sin, our guilt, regrets and failures. There are things we wouldn't want exposed to the light of public scrutiny, but the light of Christ can take away all our darkness if we let him in. He doesn't come to shame, he comes to forgive; he doesn't come to condemn, he comes to redeem. The light of Christ is the light of life, and no amount of darkness can resist it; if we come to him, and in faith ask for that light, he will bring light to all of us. ( John 5 v 9) Is it enough? Yes, the light that God shines into our lives is always enough, always more than enough. Ask Jesus to shine his light into your heart today. Lord Jesus you are the light of the world, shining for all, shining for me. Enter my heart today, reveal those things that you can heal, forgive, redeem. Take away the darkness and replace it with love and joy, hope and peace. I thank you Lord that wherever your light has shone, the darkness has never been able to overcome it. Come to my heart Lord Jesus, and may I be lled with the light of your grace today. Amen. Have a lovely day today, God bless you all đ&#x;™? đ&#x;Ž„
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02 December 2020
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orning all! Major Antony and Major Fiona here.
You may have seen our 'good and bad news' post yesterday. The bad news đ&#x;˜’ is that the band can't play at the Guisborough Christmas tree on Christmas Eve due to social distancing rules, but the GOOD NEWS đ&#x;˜ƒ is that a section of the band (6 players) will be playing on two Saturdays!!! Stokesley and Guisborough on 12th and 19th. It's the news we've been waiting for for a number of weeks now, and although it's not everything we wanted, it's such a relief! Someone wrote this on reading the announcement yesterday: "This is GREAT news. Me & my family have been listening to your beautiful Christmas music since we moved to Guisborough in 1978 & it has always been looked forward to..." Christmas without music would be impossible to imagine and we are so glad that we can bring just a little musical joy to the High Street this year. The Psalmist tells us to praise the Lord with the sound of the trumpet. Well in those days quite commonly, a trumpet was a rams horn but they did use silver trumpets too, usually either to signal going into battle (think of Joshua and the battle of Jericho) or to gather the people together. Let's go with the second reason! We might prefer cornets, horns, baritones, euphoniums, trombones and basses nowadays but as well as praising the Lord, we will be calling people to think of Jesus, to remember the story of his birth and what it means, and to worship God for themselves. I am so pleased that the sound of Salvation Army brass instruments will be heard by the people, it will gladden their hearts and we who play will be pleased as well! One nal thought: I have often quoted Psalm 22 v 3 which reminds us that God inhabits the praises of his people. As the band plays Christmas praises, God will be there and we can all pray that maybe like no other year, the Holy Spirit will in uence those who hear the music. It's true for us all, when we praise God (trumpet optional) he draws near to us. May today be a day of praise for you. Hark, the glad sound! The Saviour comes, the Saviour promised long;
Our glad hosannas, Prince of peace,
let every heart prepare a throne,
thy welcome shall proclaim,
and every voice a song.
and Heaven’s eternal arches ring
He comes the broken heart to bind,
with thy belovèd Name.
the wounded soul to cure, and with the treasures of his grace to enrich the humble poor.
God bless you!đ&#x;™?
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03 December 2020
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i everyone, welcome to Thursday! We hope you're having a good week.
Well, things do seem to be moving apace, don't they? On the news yesterday the presenters were almost breathless with excitement as they reported on the new Covid vaccine. They were discussing the speed this virus was being introduced. The rst country in the world! I was amazed to hear a man being interviewed who said 'Tomorrow'. Tomorrow? My goodness that's almost unbelievable; and then we heard the list of who gets 'the jab' rst: care home residents rst in group 1, over 50s last in group 9. Suddenly the plans were being revealed, but these were not plans made up yesterday, this was the plan all along. They have been considering, preparing, getting things ready behind the scenes all this time, so that now, when the virus is ready, it seems to us to be astonishingly fast. It's almost a case of 'roll up your sleeves everybody!' We know of course it's going to take a few months, there are millions of us after all, but how wonderful to know that our initial help will be available soon, with the improvements down the line as things are developed further. We know there are sceptics and as far as I can see, many of their questions have been answered. One question is about the speed in which the vaccine has been developed. Oh it can't be good enough if it's too quick, they say; but "COVID 19 vaccines have not been cooked up in a few months. They have been years in the making, starting with a wealth of SARS and MERS vaccine research." said Dr Christian Jessen. Yes, whilst it seems quick to us, we realise that thousands of scientists have been working since January, building on the knowledge they already have, working round the clock so that 'suddenly' to us, the vaccine is here, with others to follow 'quickly'. When people pray, no matter what the request, the need, they have often yearned for a quick response from God. 'How long, O Lord?' some have asked when the answer seemed not to come. The Psalm writer prayed, 'But you. LORD. do not be far from me. You are my strength: come quickly to help me.' (Psalm 22 v 19) The whole of Israel prayed for centuries for a Saviour, and 400 years before Jesus was born, Malachi the prophet wrote, 'Suddenly the Lord you are seeking will come to his temple; the messenger of the covenant, whom you desire, will come," (Malachi 3 v 1) Suddenly? It took another 400 years! Let me encourage you. God always hears your prayers. His delays in answering them are not down to him not hearing or not wanting to answer. Be assured that he is moving quietly to answer, to remedy, to change things, but always in his time and in his way. As Paul wrote, 'All things work together (note that phrase 'work together') for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose (note also that phrase 'according to his purpose'). The Lord will answer your prayer. He begins to work things together behind the scenes, he moves things according to his wider purpose, and even if things take time, or even if the answer is di erent to our expectation, our prayer is answered for the good, for the best, according to his purpose. The answer to answered prayer is to keep praying. A Salvation Army song says, 'Help us to pray till the answer we get'. That's a real lesson in faith, trust and patience. When his answer does come, it might come quickly after a long time of prayer. But he will answer. Keep praying, keep believing, keep watching. God bless you đ&#x;™?
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04 December 2020
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ello again everyone from us to you. How are the preparations going?
I actually got round to buying Christmas cards yesterday. All that remains is writing them and then posting them. Next week then! I was wondering actually how long Christmas card sending will last, with the news that in January, 2nd class post is rising by a penny and rst class is to go up 9p to 85p! I know I sound old, but when I started working on the Post O ce counter they were 10p and 12p! And even then people complained! 'Two and Six for a stamp?!' (If you're younger than me you will have no idea what I'm on about there đ&#x;˜ ) I always used to say that if your message was important you would be happy to pay the postage. Well, letters and cards are still important. In the days of texts and emails it's still lovely to hear the letterbox clatter, and to see an envelope with your handwritten address on it. You may receive a Christmas card today; you'll open it and say something like, 'O, it's from John and Sarah, that's nice!' and the beauty of reading their four or ve words of greeting, possibly more, is that you think of them, a memory or two comes to mind, and your friendship is a rmed. Sometimes a card or letter is sent with real a ection, and you really value those cards. There's more than a greeting, there are words of love. I think many people treasure the last card they might have received from someone they've lost, a card that is carefully packed away and then placed lovingly again on the mantlepiece each year as if received for the rst time. It's a lovely thing to give and receive something as simple as a card with a heartfelt greeting. A favourite quote of mine from William Booth the Founder of The Salvation Army is that in the Bible 'God has put his heart on paper.' That's a lovely way of looking at the Bible. There are familiar stories, there's beautiful poetry, history, di cult passages to understand, and of course the whole story of Jesus; and over all it's the story of God who loves you and loves me. The words we read, like the handwritten words in a card or letter, help us to think of the One who sent it. Peter once said to Jesus after some previously-interested followers had left, 'Who else would we go to? You have the words of eternal life.' As the Psalm writer puts it, God's words 'are more precious than gold, than much pure gold; they are sweeter than honey, than honey from the honeycomb.' Psalm 19 v 10 Let me encourage you to read your Bible today. You can even read it online! See in it words that will comfort, bless and remind you of God's constant love for you. Sing them over again to me, Wonderful words of life,
Beautiful words, wonderful words,
Let me more of their beauty see,
Wonderful words of life;
Wonderful words of life;
Beautiful words, wonderful words,
Words of life and beauty
Wonderful words of life.
Teach me faith and duty. Have a lovely day, God bless you đ&#x;™?
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05 December 2020
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ood morning everyone. Welcome to another Song Saturday where we look at one of the songs that will feature in tomorrow's
Together in Worship. This week, a song that might take a bit of
thinking about. This is one of those songs where you might think, 'What on earth does this mean?' Maybe it's because it's not a simple song that it's not used very much and perhaps not known by many; perhaps you yourself don't know it very well. It didn't come into The Salvation Army song book until 1986 and was in our 1994 carol book. Older bandsmen will remind me if it was in the 'Green' Carol book before that; but what's strange is that this was in our children's song book! We might ask who on earth thought these words would be understood by children? Let's look at the lyrics: They all were looking for a king to slay their foes and lift them high; Thou cam'st a little baby thing that made a woman cry. That's quite lovely; it ends with a very human reference to the dif iculties of childbirth, and the small-ness of a baby compared to what the people expected; a king who would ight the Roman occupation. But then we move into more dif icult words: O Son of Man, to right my lot My fancied ways why should'st thou heed? naught but thy presence can avail; Thou com'st down thine own secret stair; Yet on the road thy wheels are not, Com'st down to answer all my need, Nor on the sea thy sail. Yea, every bygone prayer. One reviewer of the song mentioned that children understand a lot more than we might think: 'they often grasp instinctively what adults have lost the power to understand.' Some children's books - The Chronicles of Narnia for example, often have hidden meanings that children 'get' while adults need it explaining! As I look at the words of this song, the imagery of wheels not being on the road, sails not on the sea, they suggest to me that God's presence doesn't come in ordinary ways. We expect things to travel on well-worn paths; is this song saying God has different ways? The last verse seems to accept that God doesn't follow our ways but instead, in those wonderfully poetic words, 'com'st down Thine own secret stair.' Here's a similar picture to the one before: God does not use expected methods, and yet, knowing our need of his presence, knowing we have daily needs, he still comes to us; even if it's unexpectedly, secretly. Could there be answered prayer that we are not aware of? I was talking to someone the other day about miracles. Could it be that miracles sometimes happen without our knowing because they occur before the crisis happens? Can God prevent a crisis, and we never realise? How many times has God cared, protected, rescued, and blessed us unawares as he has come down 'to answer all my need'? 'As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts,' says God to us in Isaiah 55 v 9 Can I encourage you to look and see shadows of where God has been moving, blessing you 'in secret', leading you while you didn't realise? Very often, it's only when you look back you can see that God has done something. He really did 'come down his own secret stair' and somehow, in his way and in his time, he has answered our bygone prayer. Loving Father, knowing that you care for me whatever happens is a heart-warming thought. I also realise that parents often know more than a child realises and act accordingly for the good of the child, and in a greater way you hear my prayer knowing the best way to answer it; Father, that gives me con idence, knowing that I am in strong hands. Lord, sometimes I try to decide beforehand how you should answer my prayers; so help me instead to trust you, to have faith that your ways are indeed higher than mine, and you don't simply follow human paths in order to work miracles for those who believe. Today Lord, I trust you; and I will try to look for your hand of mercy in all things. Amen. God bless you today :) We'll see you tomorrow for Together in Worship at 10am.
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07 December 2020
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orning all, welcome to a new week. Let's see how fast this one goes!
What is it with rainbows? Children's toys and books are full of them. There are rainbows every where: usually, I've noticed, associated with unicorns and princesses. So you might assume that any mention of rainbows will be all about magic, fairy dust and childish dreams. Why is it then that when a rainbow appears, people notice, they stand and stare, they are even moved to take photos of them and share them on Facebook: Look! A rainbow! It's not just children; even grown men are impressed with the magni cent sight of a rainbow. We have seen rainbows frequently. We know why they form. We know that any mixture of rain and sun will cause light to be refracted and the spectrum of light will appear. But the familiarity and the knowledge of what a rainbow is never takes away the sense of awe we feel. I popped out to Boyes the other day and suddenly, in between the heavy rain and the huge hailstorm that caught me as I was struggling to nd my front door key, there was a full rainbow over Westgate, our high street. It was made even more dramatic by the very dark sky behind it. And I confess that I literally stopped outside the shop and stared at it. And yesterday people were putting photos of it on Guisborough News and Views. Yes, it's a natural phenomenon, it's beautiful, it's been appropriated now as a symbol of gratitude to the NHS but, as I've often said before, to me and to Christians and Jews everywhere, it's the ancient symbol of God's faithfulness to the world. The Bible recalls God's own word to us: 'He is God, the faithful God, which keeps covenant and mercy with them that love him and keep his commandments to a thousand generations.' It's December. It's been a long year, we're excited for Christmas, but we are getting weary of restrictions, some are worried about the future, some have been a ected nancially. We still enjoy the many things around us that are good and lovely; and those with faith in God still look up and whether a rainbow has appeared or not, we still lift our hearts to Him because no matter what, God is faithful to those who live for him. And because we look up, because our eyes focus on his faithfulness, we can look forward in hope. The Christian need never despair, never be despondent, because even in changing and challenging circumstances, God is always faithful. Let us never lose the wonder of it all. Father God, loving and kind as you are I can come to you in my prayers. Help me to lift my eyes to the one who is Lord of all things, and my heart to him who holds me in his arms. You are the faithful God, and so much around me reminds me of this: the love of other people, the beauty of nature, your Word itself which reminds me every time I read it, that you, O God, are kind, compassionate, loving and just. I may not see a rainbow today, but I will think of your great faithfulness and the new mercies I see each morning. I really can testify that all I have needed your hand has provided. In my needs and in my blessings, Lord, be my faithful companion; and in all things I will be thankful. Amen Have a lovely day everyone. God bless you đ&#x;™?
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08 December 2020
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ood morning to you all from Major Antony and Major Fiona.
The picture that accompanies the Bible verse this morning was chosen especially for the penguins đ&#x;?§ đ&#x;?§ - well it's winter/Christmas thing, and also because they're foreign! (Southern hemisphere and Antarctica) "All the brothers and sisters here send greetings to you. Greet each other with Christian love." 1 Corinthians 16:20 Paul who wrote his letters that we now have in the New Testament was quite a traveller. In those days people didn't travel very far at all but he saw a lot of the Middle East, Turkey, the Mediterranean islands, Greece and Rome. He would have visited Spain too had Nero not executed him. And in these places he built up networks of friends, fellow workers, people he loved and shared his faith with. He wrote letters to individuals and single churches, and he also wrote letters that were passed from church to church. Oh how Paul would have loved emails! Especially the 'all@' facility where the same message can be sent instantaneously to all your contacts. But I think Paul would have loved Facebook! Just imagine his messages, his photos - Here's me in Ephesus. This is us in Cyprus... He not only enjoyed his writings and his travels, he just loved Christian fellowship. Yesterday I came across a post I wrote 12 years ago! It was something trivial about socks! But you will agree, I'm sure, that social media (recognising its shortcomings) has been a wonderful way of connecting with family and friends, the Salvation Army family and most amazingly, Christian people from around the world. Salvationists are in touch with each other from every territory, we have made friends in Australia, New Zealand, parts of Africa we'll never visit. I have made friends on Facebook from the US and at the 2015 Salvation Army International Congress they recognised me and came over to say hi. What a gift our Contact List has become. People chat, they ask for and give spiritual advice and encouragement, they assure one another of prayers, share Bible verses, get to know each other and develop friendships in a way that was impossible before. The Christian communion has been strengthened and blessed, and I'm amazed that even these simple daily thoughts are being shared round the world. This year especially we can thank God that we are brought together in this way. Father of all, what a wonder it is that we can send and read messages instantaneously around the world. I thank you for everyone in my contacts list - my close family, local friends, my church family. I especially appreciate people from around the world I will only meet in Heaven but who have become friends. We share interests, faith, a sense of humour. We promise to pray for one another, and through this Lord, the church, your body is strengthened and encouraged. I'm so glad to know people think of me, as I think of them. As we send greetings, as we share our faith, Lord draw me close to them in your Holy Spirit, and may others yet come to join us. Bless me, bless my friends, bless your Church wherever we are, with love, unity and fellowship. In Jesus' name. Amen. God bless you đ&#x;™? wherever you are.
 
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09 December 2020
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ood morning everyone. Halfway through the week already. We hope it's turning out to be a good one!
Well the ITV News certainly thought so last night! It was full of good news. I remember years ago a suggestion was made that there should be a newspaper or TV News that only had good news: no disasters, no crimes, no political argument or celebrity bad behaviour...It seemed a good idea but it never took o . Well last night's news certainly took o and ew. It was, of course, the news of the rst Covid-19 vaccines, and Tom Bradby the newsreader could hardly contain his excitement as he introduced the lm clips and interviewed people brought in to comment. There was a sense of joy at the graphic scenes of needles being plunged into the upper arms of various 90 year olds, the rst of whom was wheeled down a corridor lined by applauding nurses, and another was appropriately called William Shakespeare! A true Englishman as an example of how Britain has led the way in starting vaccinations. Yes it was really a Good News story; but it was more than that. It was good news because it's for us too. We are happy because the vaccine will be for us too one day and the happiness of these rst patients will be felt by us all. It's certainly great news! Mark's account of the life of Jesus is introduced with these words: 'The beginning of the gospel about Jesus Christ, the Son of God.' 'Gospel' isn't a religious word, it's Old English for 'good news'. Last night I literally heard Tom Brady joyfully telling me the gospel of the vaccine. And in a similar but more signi cant way, the message, the headline news about Jesus is also a gospel story, a good news story, a 'great news' story: Mankind is a ected by a common problem that the Bible calls sin. It's not a popular word but it a ects us all. It's in our hearts, it's in society, it has invaded our world. The bad news is that we are powerless to control it. The Bible says that we have all sinned and fall short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23) and if we're honest, we know it. But the Good News is that through Jesus, through his birth, his death on the cross and his resurrection, sin can be forgiven, we can be free. And that, simply put, us the Gospel, the Good News. If we turn to Christ, if we believe that he can take away our sin, we can be forgiven, and then, as Paul writes, we are 'a new creation, the old has gone, the new has come.' The Good News, the headline story, is that in Jesus there is hope and joy and peace both in this life and in Heaven for those who trust him. This is the message I would love to hear in the ITV news! I doubt you'll hear it there, but we can share it in so many ways here. I hope and pray that this good news, this great news, will ll your heart with joy too. Father God, thank you for Jesus. Thank you that his coming into our world is such good news. I think of him, of the wonder of his birth, his life, and death, and I remember it was for us, for me. Today I want to know the joy that comes with believing the good news. I want to believe in Jesus and know that I have been forgiven, and that I am loved and welcomed by him into the family of God. Father this is better than any news on television because it changes my heart and my life. I love you Lord, and thank you in Jesus' name. Amen. We hope you have a joyful day. God bless you đ&#x;™?
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10 December 2020
H
ello again everyone,
How old are you today? A strange question I suppose; we are not a di erent age every day except that today we're all exactly one day older than yesterday. But sometimes we might feel older on one day than others. Like when you get out of bed and there's an ache that wasn't there yesterday, or you walk a distance and realise it used to be easier. Then, on some other days you have the ener y of someone ten years younger, when you look at the re ection in the mirror you wonder who it is. 'It can't be me, I'm much younger than him!' (In my mind, anyway đ&#x;˜ ) Yesterday was the birthday of one of my old school teachers and it made me feel very old. I left school 40 years ago and this teacher has only just had his 70th birthday. If my maths is correct, that means he was in his 20s when he taught me! Don't tell him but I always thought he was much older! Here's a thought, did you know that children look at anyone over 30 and see them all as the same age? 30, 40, 50 - it's all the same to them. Wouldn't it be good to self-identify as any age you chose - and still have the experience and knowledge of the age you're at now. Would I like to be the age my mind sometimes thinks it is? I don't know. Growing older is a gift. It can be seen as a privilege, but it's probably not helpful to be old beyond our years. Youth has the freshness and excitement of discovering new things, taking delight in simple things. Youth has a greater capacity for trust, for faith. Maybe that's why Jesus famously said, looking at a group of children, 'the Kingdom of Heaven is for such as these'. He didn't mean that Heaven is for children, he meant that it's for people of all ages who have a childlike heart, a youthful spirit. The spiritual life that extends beyond this one is for those who can simply trust in God and rely on him. We can't turn the clocks back - isn't that a shame? - but by God's grace we can once again have a childlike faith, a young person's ability to be amazed, to be excited by new things, and simply to believe. It really is true: 'He satis es your years with good things, so that your youth is renewed like the eagle.' (Psalm 103 v 5) I hope you 'soar like an eagle' today - even if your body won't let you, allow your heart to be young again! God bless you đ&#x;™?
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11 December 2020
W
elcome to Friday everyone! The weekend beckons, and we're busy putting together the children's nativity for
Sunday's Together in Worship. We hope you'll join us. Well yesterday was an experience. After 10 months The Salvation Army was back on the street selling the War Cry. Restrictions applied, as you would expect, and so the papers were safely placed on a little table under 2 stones out of my garden acting as much-needed paperweights. Yours Truly had to wear gloves (which was just as well because it was cold) and I had to o er the collecting box at arms length to anyone who wanted to give. And of course I was masked up. I think we're all used to our masks now, including the little ones. I often wonder what they think of Mummy and Daddy and all the grown-ups wearing our masks. They probably have got used to it, but not the little boy I saw yesterday with his Mum. When he caught sight of me, the look of fear, almost terror, on his face was quite worrying. He couldn't take his eyes o me with my black mask and dark navy peaked cap. I hope I didn't give him nightmares - especially after I tried to smile reassuringly at him; though with the mask on, my eyes possibly looked sinister and menacing! I watched people passing by and was actually more interested in their masks. Lots of black ones, a few light blue papery ones, a couple of headscarves, some bloke with something that looked like it was out of the Arabian Nights! And lots of brightly coloured, patterned and very fancy ones. I was most impressed by an older woman with one literally covered in shiny, vivid purple sequins. A contender for Strictly, I thought! Masks can hide us, they can change how people perceive us, they can also reveal something about the person who wears them, or annoyingly to some, the person who refuses! In the Bible a mask, or a veil, is written about when referring to people not believing - their eyes are veiled. In one dramatic story where Moses had been with God, that meeting had literally a ected his appearance so he had to wear a mask so other people couldn't see his face. Paul tells us that when we believe, it's as if a veil, a mask, is removed that was preventing us from seeing. Wearing my mask yesterday was frustrating because my glasses kept steaming up. I couldn't see the people. And unbelief stops us from seeing Jesus as he is, from knowing his love, his wonderful nature and character. But as soon as we believe, the veil is taken away, our eyes are unrestricted and we see by faith the beauty of the One who was born, lived and died for us. And just as Moses found his face changing when he was with God, so we too begin to feel a change in us as we look at Jesus. In the Army we have a song that is a prayer to become more like Jesus in his character. That prayer can only be answered when the mask is taken away, and we are ourselves without pretence in his presence. Oh to be like Thee, blessed Redeemer, This is my constant longing and prayer; Gladly I’ll forfeit all of earth’s treasures, Jesus, Thy perfect likeness to wear.
O to be like Thee, full of compassion, Loving, forgiving, tender and kind, Helping the helpless, cheering the fainting, Seeking the wand’ring sinner to nd.
O to be like Thee, O to be like Thee, Blessed Redeemer, pure as Thou art; Come in Thy sweetness, come in Thy fullness; Stamp Thine own image deep on my heart.
(You can sing this to the tune of Morning has Broken)
God bless you everyone đ&#x;™? Have a lovely day!
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12 December 2020
W
ell, as expected the week has gone quickly, so 'welcome to Song Saturday!' This is where we preview a song or hymn
that will feature in tomorrow's Together in Worship. It's our Nativity Play tomorrow, and it would have featured a shy Mary, a reluctant star, a grinning Joseph, three kings who won't walk slowly and a shepherd who really wanted to be a king... All great fun. The best Nativity Play has an unexpected element of childlike unpredictability in it. One thing that IS predictable, even in an online version of the Nativity, is the singing of Away in a Manger. It's almost as predictable as a carolling session where a cheeky bandsman will come out with Away with the Major ( ho ho ho)... It's almost a compulsory carol that we learn as 3 year olds at school and Sunday School. It's funny how we learn things so early that stay with us forever, even if we misunderstood them at rst. I believed as a child that Jesus asleep in the hay meant he was sleeping in a whole house made of hay, a bit like the little pig's house of straw. I know better now đ&#x;˜ A danger with childhood religion is that it gets discarded with the story books and toys as we grow into adulthood. We need to nd ways of making The Story, and living faith in Jesus, something that is part of adult living and believing too. Away in a Manger needn't be a children's 'nursery rhyme' carol; it actually has deep meaning, and contains within it a prayer that is as profound as any other. Be near me, Lord Jesus, I ask thee to stay close by me forever; and love me, I pray. To me, that is a real prayer of faith and trust. Yes, it can be sung simply and sweetly by a three year old with shiny wings and a tinsel halo, but in every situation in adult life those words are powerful spiritual words that reveal a depth of desire for God to come to the seeking heart. It's a prayer that re ects the deepest desire of every man, every woman who wants to feel loved, who wants to escape the loneliness of life that comes to us all when we bear a burden. It's also a prayer that speaks of 'forever'. If faith is not just for childhood, it's not just for this life alone either. There's a life beyond this one, and Heaven is promised to those who turn to Christ, who believe in him for forgiveness and the gift of eternal life. 'Believe in God’ (as so many do in general), said Jesus; 'Believe also in me' (that's a very speci c belief, trust, and step of faith). If we put our faith in Jesus then I guarantee that the prayer that just about every child learns, and most adults can remember, will be answered for you: he will be near you, stay close by you forever, and he will love you. He asks for your faith not just a song, for your love not just a prayer, for your life not just a memory of a belief once held. Today, may Jesus answer your prayer of faith. God bless you đ&#x;™? Away in a manger, No crib for His bed, The little Lord Jesus Lay down his sweet head. The stars in the sky Looked down where he lay, The little Lord Jesus asleep in the hay.
The cattle are lowing, The baby awakes, But little Lord Jesus no crying He makes. I love thee, Lord Jesus, Look down from the sky and stay by my side until morning is nigh.
Be near me, Lord Jesus, I ask thee to stay close by me forever, And love me, I pray. Bless all the dear children in thy tender care, And t us for Heaven to live with thee there.
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14 December 2020
W
elcome all to Monday. Major Antony and Major Fiona here.
We hope you had a good weekend; it's certainly been a busy one for many. Saturday was a particularly joyous one for some members of the band as we were able to play for an hour in Westgate, Guisborough's high street. Covid restrictions dictated that only 6 could play, each one distanced. We awoke that morning to rain but by just after 10 the rain had stopped just in time for us to play. Strangely (or was it so strange?) the rain began again just as we had nished. It was perfect timing And there the six of us stood, led by Ashley who conducted us to keep us in time. None of us had played together for 9 months, but I think we made an excellent job of remembering which valves to push down and how to keep in time. Only one of us didn't hear the instruction to change book; but I soon cottoned on and joined in on the correct music just before I discovered myself playing the melody! We all noticed one thing: the number of people who stood to listen. Now, we always get one or two and they are (usually) very encouraging to us; but this time people lingered - two here, a family there, a couple further away. The numbers rose and I did look to ensure they were socially-distanced - and they all were! (audience adherence to Covid restrictions are our responsibility) Some people stood for a long time. It was lovely for us to have an audience rather than just people passing by, however appreciative. We really felt we were achieving something, but not for ourselves you understand: for the town. It's a clichĂŠ now to say this has been a di cult year. It's still di cult because, being in the top tier we are facing the prospect of continued restrictions for a few more months, vaccine notwithstanding. We felt that it was so very important that we should bring some Christmas joy to the town, to bring music that spoke of love, joy, and peace, and especially hope to a weary community. I think we succeeded. And this coming Saturday we'll do it again. You might have heard the story (there are lots of di erent versions) of the church in the town centre that put up illuminated letters outside the building that read 'GLORY TO GOD IN THE HIGHEST'. It's the angels’ song to the shepherds. Well, depending on which version you read, either someone threw a stone or there was an electrical failure, and the 'S' was no longer lit up, and in the darkness the message proclaimed 'GLORY TO GOD IN THE HIGH ST' Isn't that where God's glory needs to be seen, on the High St? God isn't in a church building for us to go and visit every Sunday (remember those times?) like a friend, or every Christmas like a distant relative. God is present on the street, in our homes, our places of work, the shops, the schools; and there we who love him should bring him glory. I believe the band did just that on Saturday. The good news is that you don't need a band; just be who you are and allow the presence of God to be evident in your life as you live for him today - and the glory will go to him. Have a lovely day today. Please pray for those volunteers who will be hard at work today making up parcels of gifts and food. May God bless you. đ&#x;™?
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15 December 2020
G
ood morning everyone from Major Antony and Major Fiona.
Once or twice in these daily thoughts I have mentioned the sunrise; similarly I have mentioned 'the bright and morning star', as the song describes it. Well this morning, as I waited patiently at the open back door for the cat to decide if she wanted to go out or not, I stood looking at a clear, dark sky lled with stars. I looked from one to another, trying to detect any familiar constellation - I couldn't - and watching them all twinkling. The thought came to me that Dr Brian May, the guitarist from Queen who has a PhD in Astrophysics, would be able to tell me literally everything I needed to know about this one, that one, that group, how far away they are, what they are made of and why they twinkle. And then I thought of ancient people who believed all kinds of things because all they knew was that there were little dots of light in the sky. Were they only just out of reach? Were they stuck on the inside of a dome that covered the earth? Were they gods watching us and whom we should worship? The Bible is very clear that God created them as just lights. They are not gods, they have no bearing on our lives. But the Bible does get poetic about them and on one occasion God asks Job, "Who laid the earth's cornerstone, when the morning stars sang together, and all the sons of God shouted for joy?" Job 38 v 7 He's suggesting that with the angels, even the stars sang God's praises when they were created witnessing to a pagan world that God is greater than even these mysterious lights. The morning stars sang. Well, not literally, but it reminds me of a carol you've probably listened to already this year: 'Oh morning stars together, proclaim the holy birth. And praises sing to God the King, and peace to men on earth.' When we look at the stars - either with the modern eyes of astrophysics, or the ancient eyes of awe at the mystery of these twinkling lights, we can consider the vastness of the universe and the power of God the Creator. And though God has used natural processes to create these wonders we might still want to use the word 'miracle'. With that in mind, let me leave you with words of a song that remind us of the wonderful thing God has done for us; that through Jesus he has redeemed us and given us a new life. We are born again by his grace. My Father is omnipotent, And that you can't deny;
It took a miracle to put the stars in place,
A God of might and miracles-
It took a miracle to hang the world in space;
'Tis written in the sky.
But when He saved my soul, Cleansed and made me whole,
Though here His glory has been shown,
It took a miracle of love and grace!
We still can't fully see The wonders of His might, His throne'Twill take eternity.
https://youtu.be/-uAQ_XT8NnU
May God bless you today đ&#x;™?
 
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16 December 2020
H
ello everyone.
I was walking through the town last week and I noticed a shop being given new signage. It wasn't just a shop name, it was a description of what the shop was providing; so, as you do, I stopped to read the signs. Well immediately, I saw the spelling mistake! It wasn't a di cult word to spell, and I'm sorry to say that I laughed out loud when I saw it. Then I wondered if I should inform the man who was putting the sign up. No, I didn't want to be a busybody. But I am almost ashamed to relate that as I laughed, I did say out loud to nobody in particular, 'Ha! There's a spelling mistake!' Another man passing by just happened to hear me, and so a short conversation followed and then we went on our way. The spelling mistake is still there. I checked yesterday đ&#x;˜ I love spelling mistakes and aberrant apostrophes. My favourite ones are apostrophes to make a plural when only an S is required. The best one ever is a tattoo parlour in Blackpool that advertises TATTOO'S. It's been there for years, I checked the last time I was there. Why would you trust someone to write on your arm who has that mistake above his front door? I wouldn't! Call me the grammar-police if you like, but there are some things you really must get right. Like the Bible for instance! In 1631 a Bible was printed which omitted a very important word. The mistake outraged Charles I and the Archbishop of Canterbury, the printer was ned today's equivalent of ÂŁ50,000 and he lost his printing licence. His mistake? "Thou shalt commit adultery." I can imagine the faces of the congregation when that was read out on a Sunday morning! Words need to be correct. A spelling mistake is amusing, or it can show carelessness, untrustworthiness, or even give the opposite message! If we are to rely on words they must be accurate. The tool of my 'trade', if you like, is the Bible. Is it true? Is it trustworthy? Are there mistakes? Well occasionally there were translators' mistakes, but these were minor and haven't been signi cant. What's important is that the message is true, the meaning is clear and that the word given to us is without error. The Salvation Army puts it like this: "The Bible is utterly trustworthy and reliable. All that is necessary to knowledge of saving truth is found within its pages. It o ers hope for the future for all who need to hear the good news of Jesus Christ." Or, as the Bible itself declares: "Every word of God is awless." (Proverbs 30 v 5) Can I encourage you to read it? Many of you read it regularly. You can get a free app and read the Bible online. These words are trustworthy and true, they are the words of eternal life. They speak of redemption, of grace, of hope. Most of all they speak of Jesus. No mistake! God bless you today đ&#x;™? We're here if you need anything.
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17 December 2020
M
orning to you all. It's going to be a nice day - which I'm happy about because I'll be selling the War Cry outside Morrisons at 10 - if you're around come and talk to me! I had an odd phone call on Tuesday. I tend not to answer numbers I don't recognise but something made me do it. A very bored voice at the other end asked if I was Antony Gareth Mugford (which I am) and then said she was from the University of Birmingham (which is where I studied last year). It was a post graduate survey of my situation and status speci cally in the rst week of December. OK, I thought, I'll do it. It was expected questions like 'has your study led to or enhanced your employment, would you do further study?' etc, etc. And then she asked me this odd question: 'On a scale of 1 10, with 1 being extremely unhappy and 10 being extremely happy, how happy was I on December 7th?' What?? I laughed and said to my interviewer, what an odd question. She wasn't happy with that! I don't think she was happy at all. And thinking that I was obviously happier on the 7th December than she was at that moment, I said '8'. It was a guess. I have no idea! How do you answer a question like that? Happiness is something we all wish for, we all want for others. What makes us happy? Having good health, interests, a loving relationship, a worthwhile job? You can ll in the blanks yourself: what makes you happy? There's a signi cant truth about happiness. It's reciprocal. In other words, a lot of happiness 'returns to us' as a result of what we do. Yes, you can be happy on your own in a shed, or a kitchen, or curled up quietly with a book, but there's a sense in which happiness 'comes back at you'. You'll remember the Beatitudes of Jesus: Blessed are the meek, etc. That word 'blessed' literally means 'happy'. So when Jesus said 'Happy are the peacemakers', he's saying that people who outwardly make a positive contribution to the peace of others will themselves receive happiness. Happy are the merciful - those who gladly forgive others, keeping no record of wrongs - that attitude will bring happiness back at you. Happy are those who hunger for righteousness - those are the people who actively get involved in doing the right thing to make life fairer and better. That's going to make them happy. Well, I hope you're going to be happy today! Will it be number 10 on the scale? I don't think many of us are 'extremely happy' every day, but let's look for the happiness of others so that we too can be happier. Heavenly Father, When I read the stories of Jesus I can't help but think what a happy, joyful man he was. Surrounded by people, always speaking about God and seeing the joy on the faces of people who went away healed or forgiven. Lord, help me to nd and appreciate happiness today. I simply want to thank you for all the blessings I have received. I can look around me, and thank you for what I have now and the things that are lled with memories. I praise you for all you have provided. Help me Lord to spread some happiness today - even with a smile. I could give even more than that too Lord. Just where I am, make me a blessing to someone today. Amen. God bless you today đ&#x;™?
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18 December 2020
G
ood morning everyone. I hope your week has been positive and lled with good news. đ&#x;™‚
Yesterday I had my over 50s u jab. I only went to book it but they did it there and then; how's that for excellent service? The pharmacist was lovely and very professional. She explained everything well, and it was all painlessly over very quickly. I was very impressed. Isn't it funny how even in a good situation we sometimes tend to dwell on the negative? We all know that medication might have side e ects, so when I was handed the lea et to read, I went straight to the list and focussed on the anaphylactic shock I might suddenly get! The excellent pharmacist then, as regulations dictate, told me there might be redness in my arm, sti ness and a bit of a 'dead-arm' feeling. So I started to imagine the terrible pain I was going to be in would I be able to hold my collecting box later on whilst selling my War Cry papers? I won't tell you what I thought when she apologised for the tiny room we were in and the lack of space should she have to lay me out on the oor if I collapsed!!!! I didn't of course, but when she asked me how I felt after the injection I did begin to wonder why I didn't feel ill! My arm felt very well, just so that you know đ&#x;˜ How easily we look on the dark side. Did you ever see the men with sandwich boards and placards? 'The End is Nigh' or 'The Wages of Sin is Death'? I can't imagine anyone was persuaded to believe because of those gloomy messages. It was worse one year when our Army band was playing lovely carols and 'The End is Nigh' man came and stood right next to the cornets (no comments about cornet players please). I certainly didn't want people to think we endorsed his message. Where was the good news?? The very word 'Gospel' literally means good news and that's what the people need to hear. Yes, it is true that the wages of sin is death, but what about the exciting, reassuring and attractive good news that says, 'but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord'? Surely that's going to get a more positive response! There are some antivaccine campaigners out there : 'Oh it's all bad news.' Don't listen to them. There are also anti-good news Christians out there who will focus on 'don't do this and that, the judgment is coming'. Well, my advice is to look to the love, joy and peace of the Gospel. You'll get all the bene ts of the good news, and all the negativity will be dealt with without you worrying about it. Good Christian men rejoice With heart and soul and voice! Give ye heed to what we say News! News! Jesus Christ is born today! Ox and ass before Him bow And He is in the manger now Christ is born today! Christ is born today!
Good Christian men, rejoice With heart and soul and voice Now ye hear of endless bliss Joy! Joy! Jesus Christ was born for this He hath ope'd the heav'nly door And man is blessed evermore Christ was born for this Christ was born for this
That's the good news! God bless you today đ&#x;™?
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t's Saturday! Good morning everyone; I knew it wouldn't take long to get here :) It's going to be good, and if you have time this morning, come and say hello to the band as we play carols outside the Methodist Church between 10.30 and 12.45. Speaking of carols, here's one from tomorrow's Voices of Christmas Carol Service: Once in Royal David's City, written by Mrs Alexander. She wrote all her hymns, including All Things Bright and Beautiful and There is a Green Hill Far Away, to illustrate for children every line of the Creed. This one was written on the theme of '...who was conceived of the Holy Ghost, born of the Virgin Mary.' It's a lovely hymn, and in a few words explains just who Jesus is: He is 'God and Lord of all', he is 'our Lord in Heaven above', but also 'he was little, weak and helpless, tears and smiles like us he knew', and 'day by day like us he grew'. These words perfectly illustrate the union of eternal divinity and young humanity that we see in Jesus. For many people Christmas starts not with a boy in Bethlehem but a young boy at the back of a church or cathedral. For weeks the choir will have practiced carols and Christmas anthems, and a select few will have been chosen to be 'the boy' who starts the carol service with the irst verse of Once in Royal David's City. As they line up to process down the aisle, the choirmaster will point at one of the prepared boys: 'you're the soloist'; and the nervous boy, a tiny voice in a vast cathedral perhaps, will begin his soprano solo. Christmas worship often begins with that 'still small voice' coming from 'somewhere' behind the congregation. No face to see, just a pure treble voice telling the beginning of the story: Once, in royal David's city, Stood a lowly cattle shed, Where a mother laid her baby in a manger for his bed. Mary was that mother mild, Jesus Christ her little child. Very often, the beginning of our own Christian story - in fact quite possibly always - is a still, small voice. Our testimony of coming to faith is always a personal one. Many of us have been brought up in the faith; we have lived a kind of 'communal faith' where we just accepted outwardly the beliefs and Christian ways of our Sunday School, church or family. But the frequent experience for many has been that, in a meeting or alone in a room, a still small voice has spoken to us and Jesus has become real to us. In those moments we no longer believe just because it's expected, we believe because we've heard his voice and he has come into our heart. That's a beautiful moment. Do you remember that time? In likelihood you have had many such moments as you have renewed your faith in Jesus, or you've prayed to be illed with his Spirit. Perhaps you could pray for young people in the church to come to know Jesus for themselves in a real and meaningful way that will keep them trusting Jesus into adulthood. Or maybe you've not yet listened to his voice talking to you, calling you to open your heart to him. He speaks words of grace in that quiet voice, asking to come in. This Christmas why not pray for yourself the words of another carol: Cast out our sin and enter in, be born in us today. After the boy soprano has sung his solo verse, the rest of the choir join in. When you have listened to the voice of Jesus, you will then ind that you too are joining in with the song of faith, and you will join your voice with those of the whole family of faith. He came down to earth from Heaven who is God and Lord of all, And his shelter was a stable and his cradle was a stall; With the poor and mean and lowly lived on earth our Saviour holy.
And through all his wondrous childhood he would honour and obey, Love and watch the lowly mother in whose gentle arms he lay. Christian children all must be mild, obedient, good as he.
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For he is our childhood's pattern, Day by day like us he grew; He was little, weak and helpless, Tears and smiles like us he knew; And he feeleth for our sadness and he shareth in our gladness. And our eyes at last shall see him Through his own redeeming love; For that child so dear and gentle is our Lord in Heaven above. And he leads his children on to the place where he is gone.
Have a lovely day today, God bless you đ&#x;™?
19 December 2020
21 December 2020
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ello again everyone from Major Antony and Major Fiona.
The week has arrived! So much preparation has been made - though sadly we are not going to have the visitors in our homes we might have expected. Our giving is still a focus though! We've sent out our Christmas cards. We've probably bought most of our presents, though many of us are still planning a couple of more shopping trips for a gift or two. As far as we in the Army are concerned, the toys that you and so many generous people gave have all been distributed to families who were facing a di cult Christmas. The members of our band have joyfully, and with great pleasure, given time to play carols in Guisborough. It's not been on the scale of previous years but we've really enjoyed it - and we're out on Christmas Eve in the morning too đ&#x;˜Š . The public have been generous in their giving as well. In many ways, Christmas can be characterised by that one word: 'Giving'. Fun fact: The only recorded words of Jesus not written in any of the four Gospels are, 'It's more blessed to give than to receive.' (Acts 20 v 35). I have no idea where St Paul got that saying from, but it perhaps shows that not everything Jesus said was written in the Gospels...Anyway, it is indeed a blessing to give. But I also want to talk about receiving. Something Jesus said that was certainly recorded in a Gospel is, 'Until now you have asked nothing in my name. Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be full.' John 16 v 24 Initially spoken to the disciples who were only just learning how to pray, the truth for us is that if we ask our prayers in the name of Jesus, we will receive, and our joy will be full. To ask in the name of Jesus isn't merely a form of words at the end of the prayer, it means asking for those things that we know Jesus wants to give, and also being open to receive what he wants to give. We are often encouraged to ask in faith. But maybe we should also receive in faith too. What is it that Jesus would give? What gifts does he o er in his name? We frequently talk about peace of mind and heart, joy and hope; but these things that we long for have to be received, claimed, welcomed if you like. They don't just come, they need to be received by faith in him who longs to give them as much as we long to receive them. Jesus often talks about 'my joy', 'my peace'. These are his gifts alone. But we need to receive them by having an open heart, a trusting faith and a believing mind. Ephesians 3:20 says that God is 'able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us.' That's an amazing promise. What could you receive from him today? What prayer could you pray in Jesus' name to claim what he has promised? At the start of this new week, ask, believe, trust, and open your heart to receive the blessings that God has for you, that your joy may be full. Father, what a generous God you are, a God who keeps his promises to a thousand generations. Help me to open my heart and mind to all the possibilities of what you can do in my life. I love to give Lord; help me also to receive, and to experience your gifts in my life: salvation, peace and joy, hope and healing. In the stillness of prayer may your presence and your power come to me, and help me to receive the blessing in Jesus' name. I pray this for others too who are in need today of a sense of your presence and peace. Let them know and receive your blessing today. In Jesus' name. Amen Enjoy your day, God bless you đ&#x;™?
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22 December 2020
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ood morning everyone. I hope it's a good day for us all đ&#x;˜Š
Well, there's a lot of talk about last night's star. Actually, not a star at all but a conjunction of two planets, Jupiter and Saturn. On December 21st for the rst time in centuries they appear to be so close together as we look at them that it seems to be one bright starry object. They last appeared as close in 1623, and even closer in 1226. What is exciting people of course is that these planets were also aligned in 7 BC; but not just once: this 'star' appeared three times, in May, September and December. We know that Jesus wasn't born in the year 0 because Herod died in the year we call 4 BC, so 7 BC for the birth of Jesus seems about right. Even Space.Com speaks about this 'star' that appeared three times, 'leading' the Wise Men to come from the East. Is the conjunction of planets that people saw last night 'the Star of Bethlehem'? It's quite possible. We don't need to think it was a supernatural occurrence, 'sent by God' to the Wise Men. The Bible tells us that God created the sun, moon and stars, and they are used for marking seasons, days and years, but intriguingly also for signs. Well, for those early astronomers from the East, the planets looking like a star was certainly interpreted as a sign. But so that we don't descend into the realms of astrolo y, one interesting feature of the story of the Magi and the Star is that when they travelled to Jerusalem, assuming the Child was born in the palace, it was the Scriptures that actually revealed the truth about where the Messiah was to be born. In other words, natural signs and phenomena might hint at God's workings, but it's his Word that points to truth and salvation. If last night's planetary conjunction really is what the Wise Men saw, is it a sign for our world? Is it a stretch to say that in our confused, directionless and sorrowful world it's saying something? Well, maybe to those who look for signs it could be. It's a bit like a rainbow, it's a sign to those who recognise it as such. If the Star of Bethlehem last night is a sign, then maybe we who believe can be inspired to tell the world that it's what - or rather who - it points to that is the hope of the world. It's the Bible, not the Star, that tells us where to nd Jesus, but we can thank God that the sign people are talking about is indeed a reminder that even in this dark world there's hope in a Saviour. Evangeline Booth, a daughter of William Booth who founded The Salvation Army, wrote these words: There's a light in the sky, Though the sky be dark; Oh, come to Jesus It's the light of the Star in the East. Bring him your care There's a song in the storm, Your sin he'll pardon Though the storm be long; Your griefs he'll share It's the song that my heart loves the best. He's so tender, so strong, so true, so kind It's the song that broke over Bethlehem's hill, Oh, I love him by far more than all. The angels’ song: Peace on earth, goodwill! And the song made the whole wide world to thrill, Lovely song of the Star in the East. Today you might read about Jupiter and Saturn; you might see pictures from last night. When you do, think of Jesus. God bless you đ&#x;™?
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ello everybody, we hope the week is going well for you.
I was very surprised last night as I watched a celebrity version of The Chase, (a quiz game, if you're not too familiar). The 'celebrity' was a real teacher who had featured on the TV documentary series Educating Yorkshire, and this was his question: What is the name of the angel associated with the birth of Jesus? A) Michael B) Gabriel C) Raphael Well, as you might have expected, he chose Gabriel, but then said, 'I don't know, it's just a guess' (!) Erm... A guess? I was astonished actually. But I suppose it reveals something important about our modern world: people don't know The Story as much as we assume. Unlike previous generations - my Grandmother's generation, for example, where they were taught 'Scripture' in school rather than just RE, and unlike previous years where lots of kids went to Sunday School - people nowadays do not know the basics of the Christian message. I would have thought everyone knew about Gabriel... Angels are a funny subject. We don't focus on them very much except in the usual passages - Gabriel appears to Mary, a whole host of them scare the shepherds, and one or two of them tell Mary Magdalene 'He is risen!' But by and large we don't take too much notice of them; which is good because rstly they are not divine, not to be worshipped (the New Testament warns against that), and they are merely messengers, servants of God who do his will. The Bible tells us that they are created, like us, and are 'background gures' that very, very rarely have obvious dealings with us. But that's not to say they are not there or that they don't have a role in God's purposes. We have an image of Christmas angels of course, but the Bible speaks of warrior angels, leaders of heavens powers, protecting angels. So, for example, you have Michael the angel depicted with sword in hand, as well as Gabriel who is charged with delivering messages. Well, it would be an interesting study to look at what the Bible tells us, but here's the important truth: they come from God and point to God. They don't look for attention but remind us that God himself is the one who cares, who guides, who o ers his presence through the Holy Spirit. Psalm 92 does promise that he will order his angels to protect us, and I take that to mean protection in the realms of faith and knowledge, but I am convinced that on occasion angels can be sent to intervene according to his will and purpose. We might pray for God to help and guide but often he will use unseen servants in his answer. One nal thing. The word for angel simply means 'messenger'. There are times when we can be used as human 'angels'. God will use us to bring a message to someone, to help, guide or even protect. As God will use his angels to 'do his bidding' (Psalm 103 v 20), so he will often use us if we are obedient. You might nd that you will be part of God's answer to someone's prayer. Go on, be an angel! Do you sometimes feel that no one truly knows you, And that no one understands or really cares? Chorus Through his people, God himself is close beside you, Someone cares, someone cares, And through them he plans to answer all your prayers. Someone knows your deepest need, your burden shares; Ours is not a distant God, remote, unfeeling, Someone cares, someone cares, Who is careless of our loneliness and pain, God himself will hear the whisper of your prayers. Through the ministry of men he gives his healing, In their dedicated hands brings hope again. We're here if you need us. God bless you đ&#x;™?
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23 December 2020
24 December 2020
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ood morning everyone!
Wait for it, wait for it...It's not Christmas yet, it's only Christmas EVE. Some might remember when it was the done thing to only put up the Christmas tree on Christmas Eve in readiness for The Big Day. Nowadays Christmas starts when the pumpkins are chucked out! I think we can understand the eagerness to get into the lights, the music, the warm glow of everything 'Christmassy' as we continue to endure this dreadful year. We cry out with the Psalmist, 'How long, O Lord?' (Psalm 13) and do what we can to bring normality and comfort where we can. 'How long, O Lord?' was the cry of the Jews as they waited for their Messiah. The Bible doesn't record the 400 year history of Israel just before Jesus was born. It was bloody and awful. God was silent. And then one night a baby cried, and there were 'good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.' (Luke 2 v 10) At last, God had done something. At last God was doing something. At last... And Paul, re ecting on the reason for Jesus coming, wrote, '... when the time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the Law, to redeem those under the Law.' (Galatians 4 v 4) In other words, he came as a Jew to bring salvation to the Jews, and 'on earth peace, goodwill toward men!' (Luke 2 v 14) That, of course, means the whole world. 'When the time had fully come', or as one modern version puts it: 'But when the right time came, God sent his Son to make us free.' God is never late, never neglectful or careless. He always moves, always acts according to his great purposes for the world. When Jesus was born, everything was in place. The time was indeed right; the time was fully come. In our own lives, faith teaches us that when the time is right, God answers our prayers. Delays are not denials. 'Not yet' is not 'No.' God always hears the prayers of our lips, the longings of our hearts, and when we think he is not listening we can be assured that not only is he working things out, he is also walking nearby to comfort and guide. On this Christmas Eve, Fiona and I want to wish you all a very Happy Christmas for tomorrow, however you spend it. May the peace of the Prince of Peace be yours, knowing that everything is 'in his time'. In his time, in his time, He makes all things beautiful, in his time, Lord, please show me everyday, As you're teaching me your way, That you do just what you say, in your time. In your time, in your time, You make all things beautiful, in your time. Lord, my life to you I bring, May each song I have to sing, Be to you a lovely thing, in your time. God bless you đ&#x;™? đ&#x;Ž„ Don't forget the Christmas Day Together in Worship will be published at 8am. See you sometime tomorrow đ&#x;™‚
 
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orning everyone, happy Boxing Day! We hope that yesterday was a good day for you, even if it wasn't exactly as planned. So today, as usual, this is Song Saturday where we look at a song from our Sunday worship. This week our worship is put together and led by our Divisional Commander, Major Jane Cowell, and one of the songs she will use is Hark! The herald angels sing. I really do like this carol. It's absolutely crammed with meaning. Unlike a lot of carols it doesn't merely describe the scene in the stable, or shepherds and wise men, it gets right down to what it means. You might not consider yourselves to be theologians but when you sing this carol, you are singing very profound truths. Just as an aside, the majestic tune was written by Mendelssohn who wrote of it, 'it will never do to sacred words.' I wonder what he would think if he could hear a congregation marrying his uplifting melody to Wesley's deep and powerful words. Just scan down the lyrics: Peace on earth and mercy mild, God and sinners reconciled. Born to raise the sons of earth, Born to give them second birth. And my favourite: Veiled in esh the Godhead see. Hail the incarnate deity. These themes have been the subject of books and lectures, let alone sermons! And yet I think that singing them regularly really helps to understand. I heard a true story once where a child would not go to sleep and so the father climbed into the cot with him. The little boy felt safe, and slept peacefully. In the birth of Jesus God himself stepped into our world. He was 'God with the skin on', one who loves us, not by loving us from a distance but by sharing our situation, our life and indeed our human-ness. In a role reversal, we are the little child and he is the mighty God, the everlasting Father. Let Jesus, God in esh, be with you. Never feel that God is far o or doesn't understand. Through Jesus God understands exactly what we feel and know. He's literally been 'hands on', one with us, one of us. As you continue to move through these days of Christmas, may the Word made esh continue to bless you. He is with you. May God bless you. đ&#x;™? Hark! The herald angels sing, “Glory to the newborn King! Peace on earth and mercy mild, God and sinners reconciled.â€? Joyful, all ye nations rise, Join the triumph of the skies, With th’angelic host proclaim: “Christ is born in Bethlehem.â€? Hark! The herald angels sing, “Glory to the newborn King!â€?
Christ by highest heav'n adored, Christ the everlasting Lord! Late in time behold Him come, O spring of a Virgin's womb. Veiled in esh the Godhead see, Hail the incarnate Deity, Pleased as man with man to dwell, Jesus, our Emmanuel. Hark! The herald angels sing, “Glory to the newborn King!�
Hail the heav'n-born Prince of Peace! Hail the Son of Righteousness! Light and life to all He brings, Ris'n with healing in His wings. Mild He lays His glory by, Born that man no more may die, Born to raise the sons of earth, Born to give them second birth. Hark! The herald angels sing, “Glory to the newborn King!�
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26 December 2020
28 December 2020
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orning all. We hope you have had a lovely weekend.
This time after Boxing Day is a little strange I suppose. The decorations are traditionally up until Epiphany on the 6th January, we've got New Year to celebrate, but even though we are in these Twelve Days of Christmas not much is happening. I was interested to read, however, that each day after Christmas does have a meaning. December 26th is St Stephen's Day. Stephen, a deacon written about in the Acts of the Apostles, was stoned to death for his faith in Jesus. He's the rst martyr. Yesterday, the 27th, was the day of St John the Apostle. He wrote the gospel, three letters and the Book of Revelation. He was a cousin of Jesus and his best friend. John wasn't martyred but he was imprisoned by the emperor for his faith. Today is a very sad day because it's the day of the Holy Innocents. On this day the church remembers those tiny innocent children whom Herod murdered in his attempt to kill the child Jesus. You could say that they died instead of him. The Coventry Carol which our band played a few times in recent weeks commemorates that terrible event in the Christmas story. We really shouldn't overlook it, in the same way we shouldn't overlook the persecution of Christians around the world today. We are the most persecuted faith in places like Burma, China, Eritrea, India, Iran, Nigeria, North Korea, Pakistan, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Syria, and Vietnam. These have been named as countries 'of particular concern.' In The Salvation Army towards the end of 2020 we were shocked to hear of the martyrdom of four Salvation Army people in Indonesia, killed for their Christian faith by Islamist terrorists. Today let's o er a prayer for all Christians who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, 60% of whom are children, Holy Innocents indeed! It can be di cult to have faith even in our comfortable world, but how much harder it is in a country, a society that persecutes believers in Jesus. One organisation that supports persecuted Christians suggests: Please pray persecuted believers would have access to a Bible. Pray they have the courage to remain in their homeland. Please pray for believers who have been rejected by family and friends. Pray that God would surround them with a new Christian "family" who loves them and supports them emotionally and physically. Pray for God to be an advocate for women who are socially vulnerable or have lost the custody of their children because of their faith. Please pray that God would provide persecuted believers with jobs and safe places to live. This Christmas may the Prince of Peace bring peace to all who believe in his name. God bless you today đ&#x;™?
 
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29 December 2020
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ello everybody from Major Antony and Major Fiona.
Christmas is over. Well, that's the implied message we get. No more Mariah Carey, Slade or Bing Crosby on the wireless; and all the Christmas stu in the supermarkets has been shoved onto a couple of 'Reduced' clearance shelves. No prizes for the rst sightings of Creme Eggs... Funny how we spend so much time in preparation and then quickly rush away. One beautiful Salvation Army carol has these words: Open wide the stable door, Monarchs rich and shepherds poor Wait to tread the holy oor Where lies the Son of God. The word 'wait' in the melody is not a short note. There's a sense of calm expectation here as people prepare to spend time in worship. I am not a wealthy King, Naught have I for o ering. E'en a lamb I cannot bring To give Thee, Son of God. Yet I would be at Thy side And the door is open wide! What can empty hands provide, Oh, what, Thou Son of God? In this song, as we sing 'Yet I would be at thy side', is there not a feeling of wanting to linger there, to remain in the moment? Why leave so quickly? One beautiful part of the Christmas story happens in the temple in Jerusalem, not far from Bethlehem, when Mary and Joseph take the baby Jesus 40 days after his birth to be presented. There, an old man called Simeon has been waiting for years for Christ to come; and, on seeing the child, takes him tenderly in his arms and praises God. You can read about it in Luke 2 v 25. I can't imagine that any of the shepherds, wise men, or Simeon himself spent just a short time in the presence of Jesus. Simeon said that God was now allowing him to 'depart in peace'; surely he lingered there holding the baby he had waited for all his life... A song we have sung in worship says To be in your presence To sit at your feet Where your love surrounds me And makes me complete This is my desire, O Lord This is my desire This is my desire, O Lord This is my desire
To rest in your presence Not rushing away To cherish each moment Here I would stay This is my desire, O Lord This is my desire This is my desire, O Lord This is my desire
This isn't really about Christmas music on the radio or how long your tree stays up in your living room, but it is about not rushing away from that stable. It's about staying to worship him there, or better, taking that experience with us into a busy world. Like Simeon may we depart in peace. We go from the stable into the tasks of daily life, holding onto his presence. May God bless you today đ&#x;™?
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30 December 2020
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ello to you all!
I watched the news last night. That's not remarkable, I guess, but I tend not to watch the TV news that often; I usually read it. But listening to voices and watching pictures of course made it more 'real', and it was bad news. Most of what I watched was about Covid, and then the earthquake in Croatia. It's not good news is it! It was 'This is now worse than...' 'The hospitals are struggling...' And I found myself thinking that we're back to square one. Now, I'm not a pessimist but even I felt, in that moment, that hope was at a very low level. And then a man came on who seemed upbeat and full of hopeful expectation: the vaccine was mentioned, Springtime was mentioned and suddenly there was light again at the end of the tunnel. There were possibilities again! It was good news for those who were waiting for it. The last person in the Christmas story is someone who, like Simeon yesterday, was waiting for some good news for a long time. She was Anna. Widowed at a very young age, probably in her early 20s going by the marriage customs of the day, she was now 84. She had given her life to God during those troubled times in Israel; in fact Luke (2 v 36 38) tells us she never left the Temple where she prayed. I believe she was a person of hope in dark days. More than that, she was a person of faith and prayer. People might belittle those qualities but is it not the case that it's the people who trust God who can see possibilities and assurance? Faith, according to the Bible is 'being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.' (Hebrews 11 v 1) There's more to Anna than just believing though, because she went and told. Luke tells us that coming up to Mary, Joseph and Simeon, she 'gave thanks to God and spoke about the Child to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem.' In other words she shared what she had seen with all those other people who, in those dark times were looking for some good news. Jesus is the hope of the world, and many people are lled with hope because of him. There are many who, like Anna, are living for him, living in faith that through him there is certainty in an uncertain world. They are living in expectation that the coming of Jesus to our hearts now, and to our world when he returns, are the reason we can live in peace today whatever happens. Thank God for the good news! Thank God for those who bring it! Lord Jesus, it would be so easy to be overwhelmed if I were to simply look at the problems of the world, but I thank you that you have brought hope. Some people dismiss the world and say there is nothing to save it, but you bring the possibility of redemption. Lord, that lifts my spirit. In my own experience help me to look away from the circumstances and to see possibilities in the face of the Child of Bethlehem, the Saviour who is Christ the Lord. Thank you for your good news in my life today. Amen. Have a 'good news' day. God bless you đ&#x;™?
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31 December 2020
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ood morning everyone. Well, here we are at the end of 2020. I think, along with probably everyone else on the planet, that this is a year of which we are glad to see the end. There have been some wonderful occasions of course – children have been born, bringing great joy. People we know and love have got married, graduations have taken place, new employment found, house moves to bring a new start, operations that were successful; and so many other events that will become lovely memories – despite the restrictions. We celebrate everything that was good. And yes, of course we re ect on the hardships, the su ering, the tragedy. We regret the loneliness, the personal circumstances that have been made more di cult because of the delays in healthcare, the lack of work and the resulting lowering income. We think of people unable to travel to visit loved ones, the children frustrated at disrupted education. My goodness, what a year! And all this on top of the ‘normal’ run-of-the-mill human existence with its joys and sorrows, triumphs and failures. Has there been a year like this in living memory? Much older people might look at some of us younger ones with a quizzical look. I remember our dear Joan Welburn saying to me, “Don’t worry about me darling, I lived through a war!” Well, I guess it’s all relative. New Year’s Eve is, of course a time for looking back. Oh, please look back at the joys of 2020 even when you have to recall the sorrows. Here’s something I read recently: ‘God is the God of our yesterdays’. Read that again, it’s worth thinking about. God is the God of our past as well as our future. In other words, when you look back at the di cult times, God is still there. He’s there in those events as real there still as he is real today, and as real as he is already in the days that lie ahead. The Bible says ‘Do not go forward in haste or anxiety, nor dwell in regret or fear of what is past. God has your future and your back.’ (Isaiah 52 v 12). What an excellent promise! Remember the past; don’t pretend it didn’t happen, don’t try to escape it: face it with God’s presence, grace, and mercy. Let him forgive it, transform it, rob it of its control. He ‘has your back’ so that what is past can’t rise again to haunt or trouble you! But be sure to allow the past to teach you, as you walk across the threshold into tomorrow and into the months of 2021. He not only has your back, he not only walks with you today, ‘he has your future.’ Is that not a reassuring truth? We can never go back and change the past but, knowing that we are ‘born again’ we can go forward without haste – without rushing into mistakes again – and without anxiety – knowing that Jesus who is ‘the same yesterday, today and forever’ has our future secure. Our task is to commit ourselves to him, to follow him in faith, and love him with all our heart, soul, mind and strength. This, this is the God we adore, Our faithful, unchangeable friend, Whose love is as great as his power, And knows neither measure nor end. ‘Tis Jesus, the First and the Last, Whose Spirit shall guide us safe home; We’ll praise him for all that is past, And trust him for all that’s to come.
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Index of Bible Verses - December Genesis 1 v 14 Deuteronomy 7 v 9 1 Kings 19 v 11 Job 38 v 7 Psalm 19 v 10 Psalm 22 v 19 Psalm 91 v 11 Psalm 103 v 5 Psalm 145 v 18 Psalm 150 v 3 Proverbs 30 v 5 Proverbs 15 v 13 Isaiah 52 v 12 Isaiah 55 v 9 Matthew 5 v 10 Luke 2 v 14 Luke 2 v 25 Luke 2 v 36 John 1 v 5 John 1 v 14 John 16 v 24 Romans 6 v 23 Romans 15 v 13 1 Corinthians 16 v 20
22nd
2 Corinthians 3 v 18 Galatians 4 v 4
11th
7th 19th 15th 4th 3rd 23rd 10th 12th 2nd 16th 17th 31st 5th 28th 14th 29th 30th 1st 26th 21st 18th 9th 8th
24th
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Biography
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riginally from Blackpool and Bristol, Majors Antony and Fiona Mugford, with 32 years experience as Salvation Army O cers, have served mainly as Corps O cers (church leaders), but also have experience of working in homeless services and in elderly care. Fiona is also a quali ed sta nurse working in hospice care in Newcastle and Stockton, and in 2019 Antony completed a Masters Degree in Pentecostal and Charismatic Studies. They have three adult sons and have been Corps O cers here in Guisborough since July 2014.
Guisborough
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uisborough is a market town with a cobbled high street, Westgate, on the northern edge of the North Yorkshire Moors with a population of about 18,000. The Salvation Army commenced here initially in 1879 but the Corps (church) was o cially opened in May 1880 by Captain Martha Malthouse. Since when the Corps has served the town of Guisborough and the surrounding area with Christian worship, outreach and compassion.
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