Northfield Methodist Church

Greetings in the wonderful name of our Saviour!

We are leading up to the Covenant service on the 3 February when we renew our part in the Covenant God made with us. Our theme this week is 'Life in the Vine'.

Is it not wonderful to belong to a worshipping community! To be able to associate with like-minded people at a place like Northfield Methodist is indeed a privilege. The joy we experience as we develop relationships within our Christian family is a precious gift from God which is to be nurtured at every opportunity.

The passage from Ezekiel can be interpreted as showing how our faith grows. We are led to the river where the water is first ankle deep, then knee-deep and then up to our waist. We are led in to a deeper and deeper experience of the presence of God in our lives and as we deepen our experience of God so are we more able to offer a rich harvest to God.

Jesus Christ is the link that nurtures and sustains life with God. Without the vine (Jesus) the branches (that is us) we are useless. As we remain in Christ and obey his commands so we will bear fruit for God. We have to cut wrong practices and bad habits out of our lives. In order to promote growth and a good harvest we cut back our fruit trees and roses every year. As we journey through life we will be pruned and moulded through our experiences. Jesus wants for us to have a self-sacrificial love for each other.  As Christian people loving each other with the love of Jesus, so do we glorify God.

The passage from Ephesians describes our different roles, how we mature in the faith and knowledge of the Son of God and the importance of unity in the Body of Christ. Paul shows how 'we will in all things grow up into him who is the head' that is Christ.'

May God bless you as you participate in our service today.

The Ministry Team