End of an Era
Over the last decade, St John’s has had a presence on the high street in many different ways: baking cakes for businesses at Christmas time; singing carols and giving away mince pies; gathering with other churches to celebrate Easter in the open air and praying for people following the Healing on The Streets ministry model on several Saturdays each month. As the writers in Ecclesiastes puts it however, ‘there is a time for everything’, and today we are acknowledging that the season of Healing on the Streets has passed while we wait on the Lord and discern His leading. It seems fitting to reflect back a little and give thanks for the many blessings that we have received (and given) as a church during the time that this ministry has been serving the community.
From teams of 20 to a faithful duo, however many people turned up, one thing we give thanks to the Lord for is the sense of togetherness that serving in such a vulnerable way brought. Jesus sent his disciples out in twos and groups for a reason – it brings support and closeness. It truly feels like one church when you stand beside your brothers and sisters in Christ as they witness to the power in his name and the message of hope that He offers. We also give thanks for the many opportunities that have been had to bless the community and offer a different message to the hurting and hopeless - offering hope and peace as we provided prayer, or simply a listening ear and a friendly face.
Over the years we can give testimony to witnessing physical healings, both complete and partial, as well as on many occasions being able to speak wisdom and comfort into difficult life situations, which is just as painful for those going through them. We look forward to how the Lord wants us to be a part of the community of Harborne in the coming years, whether that be on the high street in some new way, or in being able to open up our new building in ways that were not possible in previous years. It can be hard letting go of the familiar, and in letting this ministry pass we are trusting our direction to the Lord. Take time to pray now, giving thanks to the Lord for the many faithful people who felt called to this ministry over the years.
Nathan Burden
Community Pastor
