Latest Vicar's Letter

People often refer to ‘the cult of celebrity’ as a new phenomenon. But in one form or another it has been around almost as long as humanity. From the earliest times, it seems we were hardwired to worship something. Dostoevsky in ‘The Brothers Karamazov’ writes, ‘As long as man remains free he strives for nothing so incessantly and so painfully as to find someone to worship.’

Our English word ‘worship’ is defined in the Oxford English Dictionary as ‘show reverence and adoration for [a deity]’. It derives from the Anglo Saxon word ‘weorthscipe’ meaning to give someone the honour or worth that is due to them. The objects of human worship are wide ranging. If it’s not God, it will be something else. It could be a person, work, money, health, success… the list goes on.

The worship of God is fundamental to our life as a church. It is something which God desires and even commands. In Deuteronomy chapter 4 the summary of the Ten Commandments includes the following: ‘Worship no god but me.’ (Deuteronomy 4 verse 7). In both the Old and New Testament, the view is expressed that one day God will be glorified throughout the world. The Psalmist writes, ‘All nations you have made will come and worship you, O Lord, and glorify your name.’ (Psalm 86 verse 9). There is also much written on genuine worship. This is not just about words but about a whole way of life. The true worship of God is linked by the prophets to actions. It includes justice, penitence and fair treatment for the poor, the marginalised and all of creation.

In John’s gospel, Jesus has a fascinating encounter with a Samaritan woman. Jews and Samaritans were enemies. In his culture, Jesus ought not to have been talking to a woman one to one. Yet their conversation is profound and includes discussion about the true worship of God. Jesus tells the woman: ‘But the time is coming and is already here, when by the power of God’s spirit, people will worship the Father as he really is, offering him the true worship that he wants.’ (John 3 verse 23). Christians regard Jesus as worthy of our worship.

One of the significant elements of the birth narratives in Matthew and Luke is that from his birth Jesus was the subject of adoration. ‘There came wise men from the east to Jerusalem saying ‘Where is he that is born King of the Jews? For we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him.’ (Matthew 2 verse 1)

The worship of God takes many forms and this is true of Biblical accounts of worship as well as contemporary worship. It can be loud or silent; it can incorporate music, art, dance and drama. It can be both corporate and individual. In Christian worship we recognise the awesome greatness of God and give honour to our creator and saviour. ‘Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me bless his holy name’ (Psalm 103 verse 1)

We would love you to join us on Sundays as we gather together to worship God.

With every blessing, Joy