Hazelwell Weekly Contact 8th September 2024
6 Sep 2024 • Weekly Notices
Hazelwell All-age Family Service 10.00am
Please pray for
The residents of Emsworth Grove & Granton Road
Everyone who has returned to work in school or college as students, teachers or in any other capacity.
Give thanks for Tessa, Monica and others who ensure regular provision of flowers in church
If you wish the names of anyone known to you who is currently in need of prayer to be included here, please pass their names to Mary.
There is also a small group of individuals who undertake to pray for those in particular need. If you would prefer not to publicise the name or need please ask that they are given only to this intercessory prayer group.
Parish Update
The Hazelwell Thursday morning small group,
will be starting back, from Thursday the 26th September,
11am in the quiet room. All Welcome.
If you would like join us then why not bring a packed lunch
so that we can enjoy a meal together after the session
Hazelwell/St Bede’s Church Weekend
6.00pm -9.15 pm Friday 20th September,10.00am-9.15pm Saturday 21st
based at Lickey Church and Trinity centre
+ Sunday morning worship at St Bede’s preceded by breakfast at 9.45am
The weekend will consist of worship, fun, biblical teaching, eating together, enjoying the scenery, and also space to reflect.
Cost will be £32, catering and children’s activities provided.
See Andy or Mary for further information and contact Matt to reserve a place.
Some places still available on the following trip organised from the Hub by Dorrett
Reflection on James 2 14-17
This passage challenges the idea that faith is merely an internal belief or verbal profession. James confronts the idea that faith without accompanying works is sufficient for salvation. He argues that genuine faith is not just intellectual assent or an emotional experience; it must be visible in how we live and treat others.
He stresses that true faith naturally produces good works. His example is practical and relatable: a person in need of basic necessities. If someone simply offers words of comfort without addressing the tangible needs, those words are empty. Similarly, if faith does not lead to concrete actions that reflect God's love and justice, it is not the kind of faith that brings life.
Living faith is active and dynamic. It compels us to act in love, compassion, and justice towards others. This kind of faith is not just about individual salvation but about transforming the world through the love and power of God. It is a faith that mirrors Jesus' life and teachings, where care for the marginalized and the needy was central.
The passage invites us to reflect on our own lives. Do our actions reflect our professed beliefs? Are we living out our faith in tangible ways that make a difference in the lives of others? James challenges us to move beyond complacency and to live out a faith that is alive and active, one that shows the world the reality of God's kingdom.
The concluding verse, "faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead," is a stark reminder that faith without corresponding deeds is lifeless. It lacks the power to effect change either in the believer's life or in the lives of others. The passage calls for a holistic approach to faith—one that integrates belief and practice.
In our daily lives, James 2:14-17 encourages us to be mindful of the needs around us and to respond with action. It reminds us that our faith is validated and made real through our deeds. Whether through acts of charity, advocacy for justice, or simple kindness, our faith should inspire us to make a positive impact in the world. This reflection challenges us to embody our beliefs in practical ways, ensuring that our faith is not merely theoretical but truly transformative.
