Bible Background John 4 verses 31-34 – Woman at the well This little passage appears as an “interlude” during the well-known story of the woman at the well. It is a lovely example of almost comic misunderstanding on the part of the disciples. Now read the passage. On what levels are the disciples concerned about Jesus? (verse 31. Physical need only) On what level is Jesus talking? (verse 32, 34. Spiritual needs being met) We often find it easier to keep conversations on mundane, everyday lines. When and how do we switch to talking about spiritual things? Do you feel uncomfortable if people want to talk to you about spiritual things? How can this feeling be overcome? How are you fed in spiritual ways? For personal reflection: How much time do you spend each day feeding your physical needs? How much time do you spend each day feeding your spiritual needs? Is that the right balance? Luke 10 verses 38-41 – Story of Martha and Mary This is the well-known story of Martha and Mary. We often see the two in stark black-and-white terms; last year's theme “Think on these things” encourages us to take a fresh look at the familiar. Maybe the sisters aren't as different as chalk and cheese after all? Now read the passage. What is Martha looking for from Jesus? (verse 40. She wants Jesus to tell Mary to help her; she also wants Jesus to approve her priorities) How does Jesus respond to Martha's prompting? What does He perceive to be Martha's underlying concern? In what ways is it possible to be too busy in the Lord's service? Why do we find it easier to feed the body than the soul? When do you find yourself too busy to take time to be with God? Are you instinctively a Martha or a Mary? For personal reflection: How much of your time is spent being a Martha and how much being a Mary? How do you feel about that balance? Matthew 9 verses 35-38 – The Workers are Few This little passage appears, almost as an “interlude” between action-packed Gospel stories, in the middle of Jesus' ministry. Now read the passage. (Quotations are from the NIV Bible) In last year's Theme Guide we thought about Jesus teaching, challenging and consoling. Which is He doing here? (verse 35. All three!) What might have made the folk in the crowds feel “harassed and helpless” (verse 36. They had no direction in their lives. They needed physical and spiritual healing.) What makes you feel harassed and helpless? How does Jesus help? What does He mean here by “the harvest”? (verse 37: all the people in the world who need to hear the Good News) In which ways are you part of “the harvest”? In which ways are you one of “the workers”? How can we help and encourage “the workers”? For personal reflection: What contribution can you make to the harvesting of your community? Programme Ideas Outline for a Fellowship Meal/Communion What we think of as “Communion” is so far away from what it used to be! * In the early days the believers met in each others’ houses. They ate together – not just a snack, but the main meal of the day, which was taken in the evening. This came to be called the agape, or love meal. People brought what they could and it was shared together. William Barclay suggests that it may have been the only decent meal that some of them would have had – the poorer ones, who were servants and slaves. * During the meal Jesus was remembered. The story of what he had done was told, and retold. There was a real spirit of joy and gladness in those days – as they gave thanks for Jesus. * The Lords Supper (the Lord’s meal). There was no liturgy. No set words, nothing formal. Just the friends of Jesus eating food together and gladly remembering him. * Gradually the two parts of the meal became separated. The love meal was open to abuse – people just thought about themselves. Some ate and drank too much. Others went hungry. And so, actually, the agape was discontinued. But the Eucharist – the thanksgiving for the Lord – carried on. It became more and more symbolic; formal; (and theologically complicated!). Now, what we have isn’t a meal any more – just the bare fragments. The homeliness has gone. It has become a ritual, to the extent that we can lose touch with what it originally was. * Tonight, we have a Lord’s Supper food to eat, drink the company of fellow disciples in the glad memory of Jesus (in fact, we have his real presence, because he is with us still) In a sense, doing this is the real Communion – eating and drinking together, and remembering Jesus (But, in case anyone should feel cheated, we will also serve bread and wine, a little later on!) We’ll sing, and say a prayer, then we’ll explain about the food. Hymn: e.g. Jesus stand among us (Mission Praise 381) Prayer/Grace. Supper is served – perhaps buffet style, with people coming up table by table to choose food from a large common table. COMMUNION A key to understanding what we’re doing is the idea of fellowship – although that is a much stronger idea then we may have realised. The word in the NT is koinonia. It means having things in common. Sharing what we have. * First, in Communion, our fellowship is with Jesus himself: “Is not the cup of thanksgiving for which we give thanks a participation (a koinonia) in the blood of Christ? And is not the bread that we break a participation a (koinonia) in the body of Christ? That’s a startling thought, if you think about it. Actually to participate in Jesus Christ, and in the fruit of what he has done ( the forgiveness, and the eternal life, that he has won for us). * We also, of course, have fellowship with one another: (as it goes on) Because there is on loaf, we, who are many, are one body, for we all partake of the one loaf. * But this is a reminder that fellowship goes beyond a cup of tea on a Sunday morning. Because the early believers really did hold all things in common. Their koinonia was practical, and real. They pooled their resources, so that the poorer members of the church were provided for. (Do you remember how it says “there was not a needy person among them”? – that’s because they shared what they had). There was a powerful movement of love and generosity, which made the believers think less about their own personal possessions, and more about the needs of brother and sister. * Can you see where this is leading me, and what unites our programme tonight? If we’re going to have real fellowship here, (koinonia) we have to take account of the church in places of real poverty, suffering and persecution. (Mention can be made here of any mission partners, or areas with which your congregation has a special link) Programme Ideas ? Write a poem It doesn’t matter if the poem itself is good or bad – the process of creating it helps you to make sense of yourself and your relationship with the world. The result is that you are (and feel) more the person you are meant to be. The poem could be about God, to God, about you, about something you have seen or something that has happened, or about how you feel. (Some people would prefer to be restricted to one of these, to help them get focussed, in which case the leader knowing her group should specify one.) You could use one or more of the other ideas suggested in this section as an inspiration/starting-point for a poem. ? Make every meal a joyful occasion You may or may not say grace before meals, but take a moment each time that there is food before you: thankful for our providing God, Be thankful for being fed, thankful for the fruitfulness of the earth, thankful for the clearness of water, its burbling, tinkling sound, its refreshing feel on your tongue, thankful for your intricate body which takes this food and turns it into energy, strength, thought, life; …… and eat, joyfully! Make just a moment to do this for every snack you take when you feel tired, alone, needful of food and drink for revival. (If using this in a Guild meeting, you could then sing MP64 Break Thou the Break of Life) ? Sky / Stars / Moon (this one could be done in a Guild meeting if it is practical to go outside, or if you can see the sky through a window) If indoors, play a piece of inspiring classical music. Think of the vastness of the sky, of the innumerable stars, of the soft glow of the moon, each created by God. See yourself, a tiny part of it, created and loved by God. Think of the immense distances of space, of the intense burning of the sun and stars, gaze at the moon until you see it as a round rock, floating, circling above you; think how close it can seem, and how distant. Think of how close God is to you, holding you up within all the beauty of the skies and the earth. Programme Ideas A Harvest Meeting of the Spirit Praise: “Come Ye Thankful People, Come!” CH3 627; “For the Beauty of the Earth” CH3 367; “We plough the Fields” CH3 620; Readings: John 15: 1-17 (The Vine and the Branches); Galatians 5: 22-26 (Fruits of the Spirit); Matthew 9: 35-38 (Jesus has Pity for the People); Matthew 13: 31-32 (Parable of the Mustard Seed). You may wish to consider presenting a miniature garden or a basket/display of fruit/vegetables interspersed with Bible verses such as: Psalm 52: 8 – “I am like an olive tree, growing in the House of God. I trust in his constant love forever and ever”. Matthew 13: 31-32 – “The Kingdom of Heaven is like this. A man takes a mustard seed and sows it in his field. It is the smallest of all seeds, but when it grows up, it is the biggest of all plants. It becomes a tree so that the birds come and make their nests in its branches.” Luke 12: 24 – “Look at the crows. They do not sow seeds or gather a harvest. They don’t have store-rooms or barns. God keeps them. You are worth so much more than birds.” John 15: 1-2 – “I am the real vine and my Father is the gardener. He breaks off every branch in me that does not bear fruit and he prunes every branch that does bear fruit so that it will be clean and bear fruit.” 1 Corinthians 3: 6-9 – “I sowed the seed; Apollos watered the plant, but it was God who made the plant grow. The one who sows and the one who waters really do no matter. It is God who matters, because he makes the plant grow. There is no difference between the man who sows and the man who waters; God will reward each one according to the work he has done. For we are partners working together for God and you are God’s field.” It would be a good idea to chat with one another about which verse has meant most to them and the reasons why. For fun, you might want to ask your members to say what their favourite flower is and to explain why, and then look for the similarities in their choice and their nature. In your prayers you may wish to add thanks for God’s precious gifts and for every person’s gifts and natures and ask the Lord of the Harvest for workers to bring in the plentiful harvest. Another evening for Harvest of the Spirit might be to focus on the potter, Reading: Jeremiah 18: 1-6 Give members a few moments to reflect on what way God is trying to make us more like Jesus. Praise: “Spirit of the Living God” – Mission Praise 222; “Be Thou my Vision” – CH3 87. Prayer: “Spirit of the living God, move among us all. Make us one in heart and mind, make us one in love; Humble, caring, selfless, sharing. Spirit of the Living God, fill our hearts with love.” For a change you may wish to consider purchasing some moulding clay which hardens in the air and can be easily purchased from craft shops and is not expensive. Members can be invited to prayerfully make something and then share with one another: Another opportunity to learn more about each other. This might be instead of a display by a potter or a speaker. See Praise List for Closing Worship. Programme Ideas Food for the Spirit/Soul Let’s use the riches presented to each of us at each meeting, whether by speaker, drama etc., to enrich our spiritual journey. The following ideas will help you create short, but very powerful prayers after the presentation. e.g. A talk on travel could open the way to quote the Chinese proverb: “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step”, and this in turn enables us to ask: “Perhaps we are hearing God’s call for a deeper commitment so let’s think of what that might be and ask God to help us to take the first step.” After a short silence, pray: “Lord, help us to release Your power in our lives.” Or A humorous talk lends itself to a short prayer: “God of all joy, cause us to laugh – the laugh of faith.” After a speaker who has achieved a life’s goal-, ask- “Is anything too hard for the Lord? Let’s take a few moments to thin k on this and suggest that members do not focus on their inadequacies, but God’s capabilities. Prayer – “Heal our hearts, Lord, of anything that hinders us on our journey with you.” Programme Ideas A Prayer Labyrinth Walking a labyrinth, a single pathway taking you slowly from the outer edge of a circle right through to the centre, then gradually back out again by the same pathway, is an ancient form of worship used by pilgrims for centuries. You can mark out a pathway with tape on the floor of your hall or church building, or you can simply invite people to walk around the room, stopping at the stations in the order given. The journey takes you through 11 stations, moving from the outer edge into the centre, and back out again. Take time at each of the stations. You will read, or be told, what follows in italics. Station 1: Stand still. You are on a journey, a journey to the centre of the labyrinth. And out again. This is a journey towards God. Station 2: Sit down and listen to everything you can hear – the sounds within you as well as the noises outside your own being. Listen to your own breath rhythm. Let God gradually turn down the volume and give you peace. Station 3: Let go of the tensions of everyday life. Take a stone from the pile and imagine that it holds all your worries and concerns. Hold the stone over the bowl of water. In your own time, let it go, and imagine all your problems falling into God’s hands. Station 4: Draw or write on the paper provided something to symbolise the painful things done to you, or the painful things you have done to someone else. Slowly and deliberately, drop the paper into the bin. Accept God’s wonderful love and forgiveness. Station 5: Close your eyes and bring to mind all the things which distract you from focussing on God. Acknowledge them but do not dwell on them. Picture them receding into the distance. Centre: Sit as long as you wish in this central place, set aside with candles, a table holding a loaf and a jug of wine: linger and feel God’s love and healing power. Station 6: As you gather yourself to make the journey back towards the outside world, reflect on how far you can take God’s marvellous light to those most in need. Light a candle here. Station 7: Look into the mirror. What do you see? You are made in God’s image. What does this mean? Station 8: Plant a single seed into the compost in the pot. You are co-creating with God. Station 9: Think of those people you want to hold before God today. Write their names on the paper if you would like to, or simply pray for them. Station 10: Take off a shoe and make a footprint in the sand tray. Remember that God will always be carrying us when things get tough. Station 11: Sit down, replace your shoe. Are you ready to walk back into your everyday life, with God at your centre? You can walk a labyrinth online at: www.rejesus.co.uk/spirituality/labyrinth (There is another more elaborate Labyrinth specifically for Easter available from Guild Office) Worship/Meditation Prayer ideas: One voice reads the words in plain type, another voice reads the words in italics. Loving Lord God, I thank you that when I feel frazzled You restore my soul when I feel tired You restore my soul when I feel disappointed You restore my soul when I feel frustrated You restore my soul when I feel angry with You You restore my soul when I feel sad You restore my soul when I feel afraid You restore my soul when I have no-one to turn to You restore my soul when I feel empty and drained You restore my soul But it’s not all about me, Lord. You offer this same refreshment and renewal and restoration of soul to everyone in the world. All we have to do is to turn to You. I thank you that. whenever a young mother in China feels frazzled, You can restore her soul whenever an old man in Ukraine feels tired, You can restore his soul whenever a child in Peru feels disappointed, You can restore her soul whenever a teacher in Canada feels frustrated, You can restore her soul whenever a cancer patient in Scotland feels angry with you, You can restore her soul whenever a widow in New Zealand feels sad, You can restore her soul whenever a soldier in Nigeria feels afraid, You can restore his soul whenever a doctor in Iraq feels he has no-one to turn to, You can restore his soul whenever a father in Indonesia feels empty and drained, You can restore his soul Lord God, we thank you for your endless love and mercy towards us. Amen Worship/Meditation Like a Child * * * * * * This is presented as a worship package, but equally could be used as a spirituality trigger, starting at the Bible readings, excluding the hymns, children’s prayer and activities. For groups/individuals who find it helpful to have a physical object to concentrate on, a teddy bear and/or other toy(s) could be used, in either. * * * * * * Ask (best to do this in advance of the meeting) for favourite hymns from childhood. Start by singing an appropriate one, eg Jesus loves me! this I know; Jesus’ hands were kind hands; This is the day (that the Lord has made); We plough the fields. Have a children’s game or colouring-in session. For the dafter and defter – skip around or across the room, possibly holding hands with a friend. It’s silly, it’s exhilarating, it takes your breath away, and you can’t help smiling – inside and out. Leader reads a children’s prayer (or if there is a church or school children’s prayer which everyone will know, all say prayer together) Bible readings: (read the surrounding verses, to put these in context. You could have different voices for each gospel.) Matthew 18:3 Jesus said “Unless you change and become like children you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” Mark 10:14-15 ”… the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. I assure you that whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child will never enter it.” Luke 18:17 “Remember this! Whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child will never enter it.” After all have been read, each reader in turn repeats the central verse indicated above. Leader: Why is this image of Jesus wanting us to be as children so important that 3 of the gospel writers mention it? What does it mean to be “like a child”? Ask your group to make suggestions as to what a child is like: they may come up with answers such as:- uninhibited, impulsive loving enthusiastic happy, laughing carefree energetic active curious, questioning eager to learn trusting needing support and guidance Leader sums up: It seems that Jesus is telling us that:- ? he wants our unrestrained, enthusiastic love; ? he wants us to be energetically, cheerfully active on his behalf; ? he wants us to be curious and eager to learn about him, about God’s kingdom and purpose; ? he wants us to put our cares and burdens aside and let him bear them for us; ? he wants us to recognise that we are weak and need his support and guidance throughout our lives. But the good news is that that despite all our shortcomings in the second list – for we, as well as children, are selfish, disobedient, less well-informed than we imagine, and give up easily – we may still enter the kingdom of heaven, both the eternal kingdom of heaven, and the service of God in working towards his kingdom on earth. So with this promise in our minds and our hearts, we should like children delight in God’s joys as they come, not being too busy or too full of responsibilities to respond in wonder at the little joys of each day – he scent of a flower, the robin looking in the kitchen window straight at you or singing, a rainbow after rain, an unexpected smile. What is our response to these joys, these wonders from God? Perhaps to smile, sing, laugh, stretch ourselves out, to hug someone, skip, dance, write music or poetry, paint, create, tell someone ….. (Knowing your own group, you could either ask them to suggest responses, or read out these or other suggestions, or invite them to respond in one or more of these ways.) Finish with another appropriate children’s hymn, eg Jesus bids us shine; Child of blessing, child of promise; Come, children, join and sing; Holy Sprit, hear us; One more step along the world I go; There is a green hill far away. Again, if there is a children’s grace that is well known to all in your group, finish by saying this together. Worship/Meditation Father God, We ask You to be with us in the times when we feel unsure about what we should be doing and saying. Hear us when we bring our doubts to You and give us the courage we need to do and say the right thing. When we feel weak and unfit for the tasks before us help us to remember that You are always there to comfort and encourage us. You have promised to be the light to brighten our darkness and to be with us wherever we may go. In remembering these things we will find the strength to face whatever each new day may bring, confident in Your love, which reaches out to enfold us at all times. Amen Irish blessing May the road rise up to meet you, May the wind be always at your back, May the rain fall soft upon your fields, And until we meet again, May God hold you in the hollow of His hand. Worship/Meditation Inspired by Thoughts on Holy Island (David Adam) Lord, there are times I need to be an island set in a sea that hides the world from view; and in that peace, where all life’s turmoil ceases, I can be still; to know and worship You. But in this life I must become a causeway, a link to help and work with those around, hold out the word of life, proclaim my Saviour, and know my Saviour Jesus lives in those I’ve found. For when we feed the hungry, Lord we feed You; You are the stranger knocking at our door; and when we tend the sick, the sad, the prisoner, we serve our Saviour Jesus Christ once more. So help me Lord, to seek you and to find you in quiet prayer, and reading of your word, and joyful praise, and sharing with my neighbour, to show in life the joyful love that is my Lord. Originally written for 1999 – 2000 Guild Theme “Hold Out The Word Of Life” Sung to tune “Londonderry Air” (need to trill a bit on the last line of verses 2 and 4 to use up all the notes) Worship/Meditation Another modern song which could be played and/or the words read as a spirituality trigger. The tune, which has similarities to the Londonderry Air, adds to the feeling of inspiration. You Raise Me Up When I am down and oh my soul, so weary; When troubles come and my heart burdened be; Then I am still and wait here in the silence, Until you come and sit awhile with me. You raise me up, so I can stand on mountains; You raise me up, to walk on stormy seas; I am strong, when I am on your shoulders; You raise me up, To more than I can be. You raise me up, so I can stand on mountains; You raise me up, to walk on stormy seas; I am strong, when I am on your shoulders; You raise me up, To more than I can be. There is no life - no life without its hunger; Each restless heart beats so imperfectly; But when you come and I am filled with wonder, Sometimes, I think I glimpse eternity. You raise me up, so I can stand on mountains; You raise me up, to walk on stormy seas; I am strong, when I am on your shoulders; You raise me up, To more than I can be. You raise me up, so I can stand on mountains; You raise me up, to walk on stormy seas; I am strong, when I am on your shoulders; You raise me up, To more than I can be. You raise me up, To more than I can be. "You Raise Me Up" is a popular song in the inspirational mould, written by Brendan Graham (lyrics) and Secret Garden's Rolf Løvland (melody). The song, which is said to be very similar to traditional Irish folk music, was originally just instrumental before Irish novelist and songwriter Brendan Graham put words to it. Løvland approached Graham to write the lyrics to his melody, after reading songwriter Graham's epic first novel - The Whitest Flower(Harper Collins) The song has now been recorded more than 125 times around the world in different languages, including a version by Westlife. It was originally recorded by Irish singer Brian Kennedy on the 2001 album Once in a Red Moon and sold well in both Ireland and Norway. The song was also commonly used for 9/11 attack commemorations even though it had not been released in America. It was subsequently recorded by Daniel O'Donnell in 2003 and was a hit throughout Ireland and the UK. Later in 2003, after hearing Brian Kennedy's original version, American Josh Groban recorded the song which proved very popular in the US. Josh Groban also performed it at Superbowl 2004, in a special NASA commemoration for the crew of the space shuttle Columbia disaster. The Josh Groban recording also was nominated for a 2005 Grammy award. Worship/Meditation NEED WASHING?? A little girl had been shopping with her Mum in Tesco. She must have been about 6 years old, this beautiful red haired, freckle faced image of innocence. It was pouring outside. The kind of rain that gushes over the top of rain gutters, so much in a hurry to hit the earth it has no time to flow down the spout. We all stood there taking shelter in Tesco’s doorway. We waited, some patiently, others irritated because nature messed up their hurried day. I am always mesmerized by rainfall. I got lost in the sound and sight of the heavens washing away the dirt and dust of the world. Memories of running, splashing, so carefree as a child came pouring in as a welcome reprieve from the worries of my day. The little voice was so sweet as it broke the hypnotic trance we were all caught in. "Mum let's run through the rain," she said. "What?" Mum asked. "Lets run through the rain!" she repeated. "No, love. We'll wait until it slows down a bit," Mum replied. This young child waited about another minute and repeated: "Mum, let's run through the rain," "We'll get soaked if we do," Mum said. "No, we won't, Mum. That's not what you said this morning," the young girl said as she tugged at her Mum's arm. "This morning? When did I say we could run through the rain and not get wet?" "Don't you remember? When you were talking to Daddy about his cancer, you said, 'If God can get us through this, he can get us through anything! ' " The entire crowd stopped dead silent; you couldn't hear a thing except the rain. We all stood silently. No one came or left in the next few minutes. Mum paused and thought for a moment about what she would say. Now some would laugh it off and scold her for being silly. Some might even ignore what was said. But this was a moment of affirmation in a young child's life. A time when innocent trust can be nurtured so that it will bloom into faith. "Darling, you are absolutely right. Let's run through the rain. If God lets us get wet, well maybe we just needed washing," Mum said. Then off they ran. We all stood watching, smiling and laughing as they darted past the cars and yes, through the puddles. They held their shopping bags over their heads just in case. They got soaked. But they were followed by a few who screamed and laughed like children all the way to their cars. And yes, I did. I ran. I got wet. I needed washing. Circumstances or people can take away your material possessions, they can take away your money, and they can take away your health. But no one can ever take away your precious memories. So don't forget to make time and take the opportunities to make memories everyday. To everything there is a season and a time to every purpose under heaven. Take the time to run through the rain. Worship/Meditation Hymns for Soul theme (a) Tune: The Carnival is over by Tom Springfield (Based on the melody of the Russian folk song Stenka Razin or Stenka Rasin). Metre 8 7 8 7 8 7 8 7 (Words based on Ps 63:1-8) Lord, my God, I’m longing for you; my whole being seeks for you; Like a dry and lifeless river, so my soul, it thirsts for you. Let me see you in your temple, see your glory and your might. For your love is ever constant through my deepest, darkest night. Love that’s more than life itself, and so I praise with all my voice; For as long as life may fill me, let your praise be all my choice. As I lie in bed, rememb’ring, all night long I think of you; For you always are my helper, Lord, your care is always true. To your name I sing for joy, Lord, in the shadow of your wing, And your hand will keep me safe all through my life; to you I cling. For my soul will never perish while I call upon your name; You restore it in your image and forever you’re the same. (Echo: you restore me in your image, and forever you’re the same) Worship/Meditation Hymns for Soul theme (b) Tune: Leaving of Liverpool (Words based on Ps 139:1-12 and 23-24) Lord, you know me, you know every thing I do, You know every thought in my head; If I rest or work I will be seen by you; Every word, you knew before I said. You’re round me, Lord, on ev’ry side, You protect me with your power day and night. You know my heart and soul, the very inmost me; Though I grasp it not; I’m in your sight. When my soul’s cast down I would escape from you And in hell be lost and alone; But your presence follows me through heav’n and hell; Ev’rywhere I go you claim your own. I fly away into the dawn, I rush all around the world to run from you. But still your hand will find me and will comfort me, And return me to the way that’s true. In the dark of night I cannot hide from you For you see as bright as by day; In your light my soul is still and rests on you; Light of life, you let me see the way. Lord, know my heart! You know my fears. Keep me safe from ways that grieve you and are wrong. My soul rejoices in my omnipresent God, And I lift it up to you in song. Worship/Meditation Lay Down – meditation based on 1970s rock song If any guilds are into rock music, this track could be played. For the majority, the leader could read the words (excluding the repetitive choruses). This could be accompanied by a PowerPoint presentation dissolving through a lake, lambs, fields, a bright star, a road, dirty streets, Jesus, the road or dirty street, the sun, mountains, a sunset or peaceful grave. * * * * * * Lay Down © Dave Cousins 1973 single, and track on album Old School Songs By still waters I lay down with the lambs In pastures green I made peace with my soul And I cared not for the night While my guiding star shone bright By still waters I lay down I lay down. Lay down, I lay me down Lay down, I lay me down Lay down, I lay me down For my soul. At the roadside I took toll of my times In dirty streets I found peace for my soul May the merciful be right Are you ready for the night At the roadside I lay down I lay down. Lay down, I lay me down Lay down, I lay me down Lay down, I lay me down For my soul. In deep sorrow I took flight with the sun From mountains high I gained strength for my soul I proved stronger than the test When my spirit came to rest In deep sorrow I lay down I lay down. Lay down, I lay me down Lay down, I lay me down Lay down, I lay me down For my soul. Worship/Meditation Leisure Meditation based on 19th century poem by William Henry Davies The reading of this poem could be accompanied by a PowerPoint presentation starting with a hurrying throng then dissolving through trees, sheep and/or cows, woods, a squirrel, a sparkling stream, starry night sky, attractive eyes close-up, dancing figure, smile in close-up, dissolving into peaceful landscape scene. * * * * * * What is this life if, full of care, We have no time to stand and stare. No time to stand beneath the boughs And stare as long as sheep or cows. No time to see, when woods we pass, Where squirrels hide their nuts in grass. No time to see, in broad daylight, Streams full of stars, like skies at night. No time to turn at Beauty's glance, And watch her feet, how they can dance. No time to wait till her mouth can Enrich that smile her eyes began. A poor life this if, full of care, We have no time to stand and stare. www.davidpbrown.co.uk (I think this is an indication of copyright holder, but there again this poem may well be out of copyright now) Drama Sketch: He restores my soul Jessie sits by the phone in her house, a pile of Guild “bumph” round about her. Jessie Well, I suppose I should get my thoughts in order before the committee meeting tomorrow. I’ve read this “Help! I’m a Guild President!” leaflet a dozen times and I still don’t feel confident about doing the job. And as for this year’s Theme Guide………….! What a title “He restores my soul”. I wish I’d been President the year we did the body: that was easy. Even last year wasn’t so hard, once we’d thought about it. I’ve no ideas at all about the soul; I hope somebody else has. We don’t want it to be all holy. I know, I’ll ring round a few folk – not those on the committee – and see if I can pick their brains. (dials) Jean Hello? Jessie Hello, Jean, it’s Jessie. Listen, I’m needing ideas for the Guild next year and……….. Jean Sorry, Jessie, can’t help you, I don’t think. I haven’t been to the Guild for years, or to the church much lately – but you’ll have heard I got that promotion at work? I’m head of department now, and concentrating on my career. Did you hear we’re getting a divorce, by the way? Well, the kids have left home and really we’ve nothing much in common and I’m so busy at work…. In fact, I’m packing right now to jet off to a conference in Honolulu. Can’t stop to chat. Bye. Jessie Hmmm. That’s no help with my theme. Jean’s theme sounds to be “she redefines her role”. Or maybe “she staves off the dole”. I’ll try Nan. At least she’s not a career woman. (dials) Nan Hello? Jessie Hello, Nan, it’s Jessie. Listen, I’m needing ideas for the Guild next year and………… Nan How about a healthy eating talk? I’ve been watching that new celebrity chef on TV and reading his latest diet book, and do you know, if you cut out wheat and dairy and anything green or red, or yellow or purple, or blue, or orange, or black of course, you feel a whole lot better? I live on lots of brown rice and sheep’s yogurt now. It’s changed my life. And of course you have to ditch the caffeine. Tibetan spring water’s the thing for purifying the kidneys. You’ve no idea how………….. Jessie Sorry, Nan, I haven’t the stomach to listen to all your digestive details just now. I’ll call you later in the week. By for now. Hmm. Sounds more like “she refills her bowl” is Nan’s theme. But it’s no help to me. I’ll try Ena. She’s usually a bit more sensible. (dials) Ena Hello? Jessie Hello, Ena, it’s Jessie. Listen, I’m needing ideas for the Guild next year and………… Ena Oh, Jessie, I’d like to help but I’m getting in touch with my inner self this week and can’t be distracted by other things. It’s my new life coach, you see: he’s making me analyse everything I do and rethink what I want from life. So this week I’m getting in touch with my inner self. It’s working out really well, forgetting about everyone else and just concentrating on myself. Jessie Sounds a bit weird to me, Ena. Are you sure about all this? Ena Oh yes, I thought you’d say that. My life coach says I must screen out negative energies. That’s part of my homework for this week. He sets me specific targets each week, you see. Jessie Oh well, I’d better leave you to it, then. Now, that’s more like “He reviews her goal” than He restores my soul”. Oh dear, who on earth can I phone who might be able to help? I know, I’ll try Senga. (dials) Senga Hello? Jessie Hello, Senga, it’s Jessie. Listen, I’m needing ideas for the Guild for next year and………… Senga Never mind about the Guild, darling, it’s way past its sell-by date anyway. Why don’t you come round and I’ll show you something I haven’t got? Jessie What on earth do you mean? How can you show me something you haven’t got? Senga Well, darling, it’s my new plastic surgeon, you see. He’s an absolute miracle worker. Remember that little beauty spot I used to have on my cheek? Do you know, he’s…. Jessie Don’t tell me, “he’s removed your mole”! Senga Clever you! How did you know? Jessie Oh, just a lucky guess. Actually, Senga, I’ve suddenly remembered something I’ve to do. I’ll maybe call round at the weekend. Bye. I’m getting nowhere here, talking to folk who are concentrating on the wrong things. I feel quite sorry for Jean and Nan and Ena and Senga if they really think that a career or a diet or a life coach or plastic surgery can be the most important thing in life. The person I need to talk to is God. At least He’ll never put the phone down on me. And I need to take time to listen to what He has to say to me. I’ll stop panicking about the committee meeting and sit quietly with God for a while. Then my theme can be “He restores my soul”. Drama Sketch: A fishy outcome from Mr Timpson. A Guild coffee morning. Jessie sits at a table dressed in track suit and trainers. She has a pencil (with an eraser on the end) in her hand and is studying a magazine. Jeanie blusters in laden with carrier bags looking for somewhere to sit. She spies an empty seat at Jessie’s table. Jeanie Oh, am I pleased to see you. Jessie (Started, looks up). I don’t know – are you? Jeanie (Puzzled) Well of course I am – I haven’t seen you since our last meeting – now, when was that exactly? Jessie The day before yesterday! (Returning to her magazine she starts to rub out vigorously). Jeanie Oh yes – of course – how silly of me. Anyway that’s not why I’m really pleased to see you. Jessie Oh no? (uninterested). Jeanie No – I’m really pleased to see you because I need your advice. Jessie Oh – it’s advice you’re wanting now is it? Last week it was my opinion – the week before my recollection – and now my advice. What is it this time – another committee crisis? – another disagreement over who washes the table cloths? – what selection of sandwiches we should have at the next meeting? Jeanie Oh no Jessie – it’s nothing at all like that. In fact (Jessie again starts to rub out vigorously – stops slams her pencil onto the table – sighs), Jessie – are you alright? Here, let me sit down and you can tall me all about it. (Jeanie puts down her bags and sits at the table). Now. Where was I …..? Jessie You were asking me if I was alright. Jeanie That’s right – well – are you? And what’s that magazine you are poring over – let me see. (Jeanie picks up the magazine to reveal to everyone a copy of Life and Work). Is this it – the Life and Work? Jessie Oh dear, I don’t know Jeanie – its this Guild Theme thing – it’s driving me mad! Jeanie Why ever is that – I thought it was quite a nice theme –body – mind – (Jessie interrupts). Jessie But that’s the problem – it seems quite nice on the surface – but when it gets hold of you it’s a different matter. Jeanie Whatever do you mean dear? (helping herself to cakes). Jessie Well – first it was body. I got hooked. Look at me – I run everywhere now and haven’t had a single cake at any coffee morning since. Jeanie (Spluttering). Well you haven’t missed much with these I can tell you – must be shop bought. Whatever happened to home baking! Jessie And the mind. Keep it active they said. I tried that Sudoku thingy for a while but then I got hooked on the Life and Work crossword. I’ve been trying it for months but still haven’t won the competition. Jeanie Well I’m told it is quite hard – especially the cryptic one Jessie And now this third theme – whatever it is. It’s supposed to be the answer to this clue in the crossword but I can’t work it out. It just doesn’t make sense – whatever can (with emphasis) “a fishy outcome from Mr Timpson “mean? Jeanie It does sound a bit odd. Tell you what, why not have another cup of tea and think about something else for a while (pours tea). Now about that advice. Jessie Oh yes – advice. Jeanie I’ve been wondering about the menu for our Guild meal. I thought we ought to have fish for a change but I can’t decide between salmon or trout…..or something more exotic…. Jessie Like sole perhaps? Jeanie That’s a good idea. And then there’s my shoes. They are badly worn, but they are so comfortable – do you know where I could get them repaired? Jessie Well I usually go to that place on the High Street – Timpson’s Jeanie Oh thank you Jessie – you are such a help. Why, sitting here with you these few minutes I feel quite restored. Jessie (Brightly) Wait a minute – Jeanie, you are a marvel! (Starts rubbing out again). Jeanie (Preening) Who me? Why…whatever do you mean? Jessie (Scribbling) Soul ….Mr Timpson ….restored. Yes! That’s it! A fishy outcome from Mr Timpson – “He restores my soul!” Drama Would you like to come to the Guild? Some ladies meet for coffee one morning Martha Coffee or tea Betty? And do help yourself to a scone and jam. Betty That’s very kind of you and thank you for inviting me today, I am so new to the area that I don’t know anyone yet. Martha Oh, it’s no problem Betty, let me introduce you to my sister Mary and my friend Ann. Betty I am pleased to meet you all. Ann Betty, the Guild is starting tonight, why don’t you come along with us? Mary Oh do Betty, you will meet such a lot of nice people and all in one go! Martha Do come with us .. you will learn such a lot as well. Betty What kind of things will I learn about? Ann Well, the theme has been going on for 3 years. It’s called Let’s Live: body, mind and soul. In fact let me read a bit to you. In the Let’s live series we are reminded that we are physical beings who grow and develop and who have bodily strengths and weaknesses. We all have the gift of a mind capable of solving problems and free to make choices and decisions based on our needs and desires. When we read the creation story we sense God’s longing to communicate with us at the deepest level, and in our own lives we know an answering need to explore the spiritual dimension of our humanity. Mary We have looked so far at the Body and last year we looked at the Mind. We looked at what the Bible tells us to think on .. things that are good and noble and uplifting and Godly. I think what was good for us was to realise that not even the disciples who lived with Jesus got it right all the time.. so there is hope for us. Betty That all sounds very interesting and I take it that this year you are looking at the soul. I am afraid I don’t know much about spiritual matters. Martha That’s the beauty of it though Betty, the speakers and the readings and the prayers will tell us what w need to know. Mary That’s right. I am looking forward to hearing more about the spiritual side of our being. I am looking forward to hearing about how God speaks to us and ministers to us.. and of what he wants for us. I hope they are going to speak of peace in our hearts and lives and getting the most out of our prayer lives and so many many other things about our spiritual needs. Betty You know, I think I will come with you for I have been thinking on these things a lot recently and I would like to come closer to God. Ann Well that’s great, you could almost say Soul things have started already.. for you wouldn’t have thought that God could speak to us at a coffee morning would you? Church of Scotland Guild Extra Resources for the 2008-9 Theme Guide: He restores my soul