That's that then.....

The last week has been a bit if a blur....so many services, so much to do. All celebrating the coming into the world of our saviour as a tiny baby.

Today was my last service at my probation church. It's a bitter sweet feeling. I have really loved my time there. I was preaching this morning, the text was Jesus in the Temple - aged 12. Just two days ago we celebrated his birth! (Thank you Lectionary!!!)

My focus was on Mary and Joseph and how God had chosen them to be the earthly parents of Jesus. Simple folk who would give Jesus the upbringing her required. Chosen because of who they were. I reflected on how God needs us. Yes we need him - but he needs us too. Mary and Joseph helped in Jesus' formation. We all meet people who play a part in our formation. Our parents or parent, our friends, extended family and those we meet as we journey through life.

As a minister in training each of my placements have brought me into contact with some wonderful supervisors and wonderful congregations. Each of them has helped shape me, form me into the minister I am. I know my formation is not complete - I know I will continue to be shaped my those around me. And that is good - it is the way it is meant to be and the way God has it all sorted out. Just as Mary and Joseph were chosen by God to play a huge role in the life of Jesus, so he has made it that I have had the people around me that I need and have needed.

We talk often about how we need God - what he does for us, how we rely on him. But I know he needs us too. He needs us to be his witnesses in the world - to be him - for others to see him in us.

A prayer:

Thank you God for all the people you have placed in my way,
for the help and support of everyone on this road towards ministry.
For my family and friends,
for my supervisors and their congregations.
And for the special people who have been there - just at the right time with just the right words.
I know I am still not the finished article.
But I know that you have chosen me because you need me.
I hope and pray that I can do you justice and repay the trust you have put in me.
Amen