Weeping and rejoicing. Following Jesus is not a happy thing all the time. There are times following Jesus where there’s a recognition of the state individuals, relationships and communities are in when they choose to reject God. That calls for weeping. Even as we remember what causes separation with the Creator of the universe and […]
Read More Dryden Reflections 2022: What MattersThere have been times throughout the year where I’ve been irritable and grumpy. If that attitude lasts too long then I get to be really ratty and unpleasant to be with, like a dark cloud is ever hanging over me and a growl acts like the lightning in that stormy mood. There will be something […]
Read More Dryden Thanks 2022: ProvisionThere is a precious hymn that was rendered particularly superbly by James Moore back in the previous century (Moore’s version came in two parts – the first one here and the second one here – you get the link to hear it and enjoy it). That hymn is The Old Rugged Cross which has that […]
Read More Dryden Thanks 2022: Sights of Success“You haven’t changed a bit.” It’s said as a comment of flattery; to reassure someone of the consistency of character over time. It sounds like a compliment. Hopefully, it’s not true. Hopefully, you have changed. Changed for the better. Improved. Developed. Matured. The alternative would not be a reflection of unchanging consistency. It would reflect, […]
Read More Dryden Shorts: You’ve ChangedWhen it comes to Jesus we are not afforded the luxury of picking and choosing the parts of him that we prefer. When we do that, we are no longer engaging with Jesus, we’re engaging with someone we’ve crafted in our own image for our own pleasure. When we choose to follow Jesus, this is […]
Read More Dryden Shorts: Cannot Pick and ChooseWe are different. The differences have been a source for much mayhem and mischief. The response to that in some circles has been a bid for conformity. Others have used it to not just make distinctions but establish distance. What should make the church a beacon is being in Christ and the differences contribute in […]
Read More Dryden Shorts: We are Not The SameThat word “finally” suggests that you’re on the last part of what you’re saying and it might be worth paying attention. Paul uses it at the start of Philippians 3 only to go on such an impassioned plea to his audience that he ends up saying finally again as he’s genuinely reaching the end of […]
Read More For Reading Out Loud – Philippians 3There’s a lot we can learn from Paul’s letter to Philemon. How to look to bring about reconciliation. How to appeal on behalf of someone. How to address people in a way that honours and respects them. We can talk about love and forgiveness, Paul puts it on the line for a runaway slave who […]
Read More For Reading Out Loud – PhilemonThe letter to the church in Rome by the Apostle Paul is rightly considered to be epic. This is the kind of letter that groups of believers should sit and listen to being read out in total. Listen to it being read in its entirety and then sit and consider together what they’ve just heard […]
Read More For Reading Out Loud – Romans 6When someone messes up, attention is drawn to the mess for commentary and analysis. That degree of spectating should also be attached to the amazing and miraculous work of a person in a hopeless and helpless condition have their situation reversed completely. When someone does something like that it should be the cause for celebration […]
Read More Dryden Shorts: Look What He’s Done
Life With CD 