Church Wigan - Bible Reflections: Recent Episodes
Church Wigan
From time to time in Church Wigan, we publish daily reflections exploring bible passages in the light of daily experience. We want to hear what God is saying to us today on our journey as disciples, and in our desire to see one in ten people in Wigan on a journey with Jesus.
Peter Walker explores the account in John’s gospel, when Jesus tells the fishermen to throw their nets out on the right of the boat, reminding us that we will only succeed if we trust in God’s power.
Garry Stott looks at Luke’s account of Jesus healing ten men who had leprosy and asks us if we remember to give praise to God for all the things the Lord does in our lives.
Joe Magill reflects on the incident of Jesus cursing a fig tree and asks us what is God asking us to uproot and change either in our own lives, in our worshipping communities and in the world.
In our reflection today, Dave Cosslett explores how God used Pauls healing ministry in Malta, despite him being a prisoner.
Mark Wade reminds us that it is important to rest, to keep a Sabbath, but it is also important to pray too.
Helen Weavers inspired by the resurrection of a young man in Acts 20 encourages us that miracles still do happen today in the world and challenges to expect God to show their power in this way.
Steve Clarke looks at the encounter Jesus had with a deaf man and explores the difference between curing and healing, as well as challenging us to stand by those who are excluded from community.
Mike Perrin reflects on the healing of the Roman Centurion’s servant, reminding us of the faith he had, but also reflecting on Jesus’ willingness to heal.
Dot Gosling explores the witness and martyrdom of Stephen and shows us the peace the Holy Spirit can give us, even in the most testing of times.
Sam Nicholson looks at Acts 3.1-10 and explores the challenges of praying for healing and asks us whether we are blessing others outside our temple courts?
Janet Presho reflects on the miracle of the coin in the fish’s mouth. She reminds us that Jesus is in the business of doing miracles. Jesus performed miracles then, and he is still performing miracles now.
Adam and Hannah Archer remind us that we should be partnering with God in order to fully see His power at work in miraculous ways.
Sue Fulford reflects on the miracle of The Feeding of the Five Thousand (men) and what happens when we bring what little we have to God and see what God can do with it.
Rachel Martin reflects on the final recorded healing miracle of Jesus, the healing of the servant’s ear and explores how God’s healing can take place, even in the darkest times.
Frances Shoesmith encourages us to share the miracles in our lives with others, because when miracles are seen and shared, the miracle of God’s good news, and his promise of salvation and eternal life is also seen and shared.
Dot Gosling explores the sign Jesus gave of turning water into wine and offers five pointers we as Christians today can take from this passage for our own faith and ministry.
Joe Magill reflects on Luke 10.17-20 and how Jesus' followers were able to perform signs themselves. Joe reminds us of the importance of acknowledging God in all of our ministry and discipleship.
Wyn Jones poses the question, ‘How hard is it for us to learn a lesson in our lives?’ The lesson we should have learnt, is that God hears our prayers and meets our needs.
In today’s reflection, Lucy helps us to see that God does the heavy work; we just need to hold onto the handle!
Lesley Hughes looks at the illness of Hezekiah in 2 Kings 20.1-11 and shows us that not only does God show us great acts of power, God’s real power lies in the fact we have a God we can speak with and our prayers are answered.
Derek Roper explores the death of Elisha and what it means to have a ministry that is blessed by God your whole life long on earth and beyond.
James Taylor reflects on the encounter of Elisha, the Shunammite Woman and her Son from 2 Kings 4. James explores how community, accountability, and prayer & worship in Christian ministry today enables signs of God’s power.
Ali Rice reflects on the encounter and the widow with the oil. Ali explores that whilst God does show their power, the widow needs to take action herself before the miracle takes place. What is God saying to us today and how do we need to take action?
Through the story of the budding of Aaron’s rod, Fran Humphry reflects on how we cannot bear fruit by ourselves, but our fruitfulness comes from God.
Et Yates reflects on God's showing of power by providing the ancient Israelites with water in the desert and examines how we as Christians today question those in leadership and God.
John Keeley reflects on the provision of manna in the wilderness to the ancient Israelites and how the ordinary food from the shops we eat is a miracle today but do we recognise God in that?
Through the story of the crossing of the Red Sea, Steve Beck encourages us to move forward, because God has got our back
James Taylor looks at the sign of the Firstborn in Egypt being killed in Exodus 12, and reflects on how signs of power are viewed by different people groups and how Christians today can pray for the ending of injustice and oppression.
Stan Higginson continues our reflection series 'God's Power' by looking at what it means to use our power responsibly and how we'll use it for the benefit of all people and creatures.
Today Catherine Cosslett helps us to reflect on the miraculous power of God through the post-resurrection appearance of Jesus.
Mark Wade, through the story of Samson defeating the Philistines, reflects on how the use of power can be both good and bad. He asks the question, 'Are you willing and ready to put down your power games and let God's power take over you and all you do?'
Sue Fulford brings an honest and powerful reflection on the miracle of God stopping the sun in the sky for Joshua and the ancient Israelites. Sue encourages us to work with God whilst suggesting ways we can overcome the fears we face day-to-day.
Ann Stein reflects on the Fall of Jericho and how this story of obedience speaks into our own “on demand” culture and what it means for us to await patiently in God’s time and follow the Lord’s instructions.
James Taylor looks at the encounter of Daniel in the lions den and asks what this miracle means for Christians as we engage with those who seek to do us harm
Will Gibbons explores the challenges made to the claim that Jesus rose from the dead and in doing so helps us understand how God's greatest miracle still captures people's imaginations today.
Dave Cosslett explores how the resurrection of Jesus has changed the way we look at the past, the present and the future.
Easter Saturday is the hardest day simply to be, and to sit with the uncertainty and unknowing, but we can learn a lot from giving 'just being' a go, says Mark Wade.
The events of Good Friday speak powerfully in the week where Derek Chauvin, a policeman, has gone on trial for the murder of George Floyd. Is it the death to make a difference to racial prejudice? Sue Thomas reflects on the one death that made a difference to everything, and for everyone.
Peter Walker reminds us that our Christian walk is a marathon, not a sprint. If we want to win the race, we need to train, and we do this by reading and learning the scriptures.
Garry Stott looks at John 12.20-36 and explores how Jesus deals with His soul being troubled and how that can be an encouragement for Christians today.
Sam Nicholson reflects on John 12 and what happens when you minister whilst those around you are judging your ministry and extravagant love of Christ.
Wyn Joes takes us back to the noise and excitement of the crowds on the first Palm Sunday, reminding us that although the people celebrated his arrival, Jesus was soon to be crucified.
Gordon Fath encourages us to discover freedom from the tyranny of the opinions of others, in a world where reputation has become everything, and is so easily and cheaply destroyed. Don't be like Gilderoy Lockhart, he says!
Lesley Hughes examines the motives of the religious folk who want to stone Jesus, and draws out some uncomfortable questions for us today - questions she thinks we really ought to reflect hard upon during Lent.
Steve Clarke draws the distinction between knowing the psalm "The Lord's my Shepherd", and knowing the Shepherd himself. It makes all the difference in times of testing.
Andrew Turton reassures us that it is through the grace of God that we are not separated from Him by our sin.
James Taylor reflects on Jesus' pleas in John 8.21-30 for the crowds to understand the message from God the Father. James asks whether we point to the Father in our own evangelism?
Stan Higginson explores the wilderness of prejudice, both for an un-named woman in John 8.1-11 and in his own experience as a volunteer in Bethlehem.
In today’s reflection Janet Presho reassures us that through the amazing grace of God, who sent his son Jesus to die on the cross, we are loved, accepted and forgiven.
Rules can be so comforting, and give us the security of structure, says Christiane Cook. But life in the Spirit is risky, uncertain and although there are two 'golden rules' given by Jesus, we have to work things out for ourselves by staying connected to him and listening to him at every moment.
Sue Fulford confesses to knowing what it is like to crave the approval of others, but also rejoices in the liberty of caring only to serve and please our Lord.
Dean Kearsley reflects on how trials can come in many different forms, and explores our reaction to these trials.
Dot Gosling reflects on 2 Timothy 3.1-5 and the challenge we have when we are tempted by those things that may seem ok but actually if we spend too much time in them, we end up forgetting God and living outside God's will.
Sam Nicholson reflects on Hebrews 10.24-25 and what it can look like to meet together and encourage one another in faith as we come come out of this current season of lcokdown.
Rev Catherine Cosslett reflects on Psalm 139, reassuring us that that God plans each of our lives with incredible care and detail, and that we can never be hidden from him.
Jes Rusling encourages us to recognise how God works in and through difficult circumstances - sometimes of our own making.
Eth Yates wants to say that not only does the Lord give and take away, he gives back in evey greater grace. And the call for us is to return to him, as he returns to us.
Rachel Martin draws lessons from the exile of Daniel and his companions for our own times of wilderness.
Mike Perrin shares with us the story from Ezekiel and the vision God gave him of the valley of dry bones. A story of hope and of God’s promises.
Tina Nicholson explores the brutal yet human honesty of Psalm 88 and points us towards the hope we have in God when we call out to the Lord. Even in the darkest of times and when God seems silent to us.
Eileen Taulty reflects on Job 42 and explores how blessings can come to those who have faith in spite of suffering.
Wyn Jones explores with us the question, ‘Does God allow Suffering?’, but reassures us that God wants us as close to him as possible during our sufferings. like a mother nurses her suffering child, so too will God take us in his arms and comfort us.
Fran Humphry looks at the life of Nehemiah and finds that as he addresses injustice - helping people in their own time of wilderness - he brings a powerful combination of appropriate anger, prayer and action, that we can learn from.
David Halliwell digs into the story of Elijah's encounter with the still, small voice of God, and draws out the lesson that if we want to hear his voice, we must be seeking and speaking to him, too.
Sue Childs shows how God teaches obedience and trust not only to the widow of Zarephath, but to the great prophet Elijah. The God of widows is the God who meets all of us at the point - and the very moment - of our need.
Rev Frances Shoesmith explores with us how we should treat our friends, our enemies, and those we just cannot get along with, treating them all as if they were God’s anointed, just as David treated Saul.
James Taylor reflects on Joshua 4.1-13 and the challenge of leaving the wilderness. James challenges us to think about what we learnt of God in the wilderness and what we'll take forward on the other side.
Joe Magill reflects on Joshua 2.1-14 and the story of Rahab and how her faith reminds us of how we can meet unexpected allies when we work together for the glory of God.
Alec Parkinson shares with us that sometimes we are guilty of complaining we cannot have the things we used to have, but reminds us that God has blessed us and given us everything we need.
Gordon James us takes us back to the story of the golden calf, and points out that although we can't (and mustn't) make and worship an image of God, we can find the perfect image of God in Jesus, and reflect that image in our lives.
Our choices can lead to freedom and grief, says Helen Weavers. It was true for Pharaoh, and it is still true today.
Ann Stein shows how God overrules Moses' limited view of his potential, and equips him for an apparently impossible task - to set his (or rather God's) people free.
Frank Hinds explores with us that suffering and misfortune are not signs of God’s absence, that success does not depend on ideal conditions and that faithfulness is a response to the next step.
James Taylor reflects on Genesis 32.22-32, the story of Jacob wrestling with a stranger. James explores whether this stranger was God and what the benefits of wrestling God could be for disciples today.
Sam Nicholson reflects on the wilderness that is a broken family relationship and the importance of communication.
Rev Catherine Cosslett looks at the relationship between Abram and Sarai and the slave girl Hagar, showing us that God can bring good out of a situation and circumstances that are far from good.
God offers a new start to Noah, but old habits die hard, as they say. Mark Wade encourages us to think about how God may be calling us to a new start in 2021.
There's nothing inevitable about finding ourselves in the wilderness. Sue Fulford encourages us to face up to our choices and examine our motives.
Rev. Sandra Jones looks at how we respond to spiritual attacks and temptations, reflecting on how Jesus was tempted in the wilderness.
Garry Stott concludes our reflection series by looking at 2 Corinthians 13 and the role of self examination in the church.
Will Gibbons reflects on 2 Corinthians 11.16-12.21 and Paul's response to the Corinthian church who have challenged his authority and whether he is a worthy minister of the Gospel. Paul teaches on how Christians can boast in Christ and in weakness.
Catherine Cosslett reminds us that cross-cultural mission isn't about making other people like us, but about all of us becoming more like Jesus. Anything else, she says, lacks both integrity and authority.
Generosity by the Bible's measure makes no human sense, but in God's ways the equation adds up, says Lucy Haigh.
Which church do we want to be more like when it comes to generosity, Jeremy Thomas wonders? Macedonia, or Corinth?
Dot Gosling reflects on 2 Corinthians 3.7-4.18, what it means to have a covenant relationship with God and explores why we don't always share that relationship with people outside the church.
Sam Nicholson reflects on 2 Corinthians 3 and how our lived out lives should be evidence of our faith in Christ and transforming work of the Spirit in us.
Rachel Sheehan draws lessons from Paul about the real meaning of affliction, and the real meaning and missional significance of comfort.
Dalj Singh takes us down to show us the foundations of the truth of the resurrction, reminding us that it is the assurance of the kingdom to come, and therefore gives meaning to the church, and motivation for mission.
Rachel Martin shares a personal story of being impacted by the word being preached but widens out from there to the importance of the word of prophecy.
Frances Shoesmith reflects on Paul's teachings on the gifts of tongues and prophecy in 1 Corinthians 14.1-19 and how we can use our words to share and encourage faith.
Tina Nicholson continues our series about mission and Journeying Out with a reflection on 1 Corinthians 13. Tina explores the theme of love and what that looks like as the body of Christ.
Stan Higginson reflects on Paul's famous analogy of the body and the importance of the gifts of faith, hope and love.
Wyn Jones wrestles with the meaning of Revelation 12, and shares the insight that in a sense it is the flip side of the Christmas story - and there's a lesson in mission for us right there.
It's so easy to be led astray about spiritual gifts and to end up overplaying or underplaying them. But they are vital, and they are always positive - if we stay focused on Jesus- says David Brooke.
Ian Woods links today's passage with a parable of Jesus, and roots our responsibility to use our gifts in our creation by God.
Eth Yates explores Paul's teaching on good order at the Lord's Table - it's a spiritual issue, not a practical problem.
Ann Stein finds all kinds of knotty issues in today's passage, but at the heart of them lies the call to mutual dependence.
Steve Beck continues our reflections on 1 Corinthians with a look at 1 Cor. 10.11-11.1 and the theme of restraint.
James Taylor reflects on 1 Cor. 10.1-13 and explores the issue of idolatry throughout the Bible and how it may be present in out worshipping communities today.
Eileen Taulty continues our reflection in 1 Corinthians looking at solidarity with others.
The invitation to the marriage supper of the Lamb - the union of Jesus and the people of God - is an open invitation, but when we accept it, all the glory must go to Jesus!
St Paul was clear - standing on your rights - however strong the argument, could be a real obstacle to mission. He refused to do it, and Gordon Fath thinks he would want us to hear the message strongly today, not just generally, but as we deal with the challenges of a third pandemic lockdown in Wigan.
David Halliwell explores the way in which today's idols may be different from the graven images of the old testament, but they are no less harmful.
In the second half of 1 Corinthians 7 if can feel as though Paul is in a bit of a muddle, but actually he's very clear - there are a lot of things that really don't matter, but if they become a distraction from the affairs of the Lord, they matter deeply.
Mike Perrin reflects on 1 Corinthians chapter 7 and Paul's advice on marriage and relationships.
James Taylor reflects on 1 Corinthians 6.12-19 and Paul's teaching on the human body. James asks if this passage is really all about sex or is there more to worshipping with our whole body?
Joe Magill reflects on Paul's teaching about disagreement to the Corinthians and how this may parallel our experience of disagreement in this time of lockdown.
We take a diversion today into the book of Revelation, and Rachel Sheehan brings home the significance of the Lamb who is worthy to open the scroll in a time of crisis and disorientation.
Gordon James tries to get to the bottom of the problems St Paul faced with the church in Corinth. and what we can learn.
Sue Fulford picks up Neil Cook's theme of being people of the song rather than people of the quarrel and relates it directly to the situation in Corinth in Paul's time. His way of handling things is an example for us all, she says.
Steve winds back time and remembers looking after his little sister - a lesson in growing up.
Peter Walker reflects on 1 Corinthians 2 and the implications for the Christian life if we are to know the mind of Christ.
Sam Nicholson kicks off our reflections on 1 Corinthians and shows us how even in the early Church things weren't as "rose tinted" as we may believe.
David Brooke shares some thoughts on paying attention as a key to cross-cultural mission, and the importance of noticing our own blind spots and idols before we dare to speak the gospel!
Church Wigan has a growing relationship with churches in South Korea, but as Zoe Cook describeds, the blessing flows both ways.
Kate Brooke shares some personal experiences living as an 'outside person' in Japan, that have shaped her whole ministry.
Frank Hinds reflects on 1 John 2 and the memories of his Father's ministry in Africa and the UK. Frank challenges us to think about how we respond when we are moved to give the Good News to a person.
Jack Shepherd, Pioneer minister of Upholland and Dalton shares the joys of working with the asylum seekers in the church.
Using 1 John 1.1-4 Augustine Tanner-Ihm reflects on his experience of the Anglican Communion in Australia and New Zealand, the impact of colonialism and how a unified Church can make our joy complete.
As we emerge from the Christmas season, and journey through Epiphany, the daily lectionary takes a journey through 1 Corinthians - a key document for understanding cross-cultural mission in the early church. So we've built a series of reflections around Paul's first and second letters to the church in Corinth. In the first week, to prepare us, we've got some guest writers with direct cross-cultural experience, and they're going to take us through 1 John.
In this final reflection in the series, David Brooke unpacks the phrase treasure and ponder - two differeing things that together help us see and receive more and more of Jesus.
As we come towards the end of this series of reflections, John Keeley encourages us to overwhelm darkness with light.
Will Gibbons reflects on the reaction of Mary to the news of becoming the mother of God and how her reaction can help us navigate the strange year of 2020.
Alec Parkinson reflects on the lure of 'following your dream' and the way that Mary chose God's way over her dream, and experienced great joy.
Eth Yates wants to remind us that God will restore our joy, even when we are feeling completely 'cold'.
Mike Perrin reflects on Psalm 105 and the message of hope that comforts those experiencing desert and wilderness.
Dot Gosling reflects on Psalm 105 and the joy of the ancient Israelites after wandering the wilderness and asks if we will be joyful after our time of wilderness.
Frank Hinds reflects on Luke 1.57-80 and challenges us to reflect on how Jesus is the face of mercy and how we show that mercy to others.
Zechariah goes to the temple to do his duty, and no doubt prays for a Saviour for the nation. As his prayer for the nation is answered, Catherine Cosslett points out, so too is his own longing for a child.
Mark Wade reflects on all the things that have disturbed our peace, our longings for peace, and the source of our peace.
Rachel Martin reflects on a great prophecy with a resonant image and finds good news for everyone.
Steve Beck reflects on Jeremiah 29:1-4 and how we as Christians can seek God's welfare and in turn, bless those in our communities.
James Taylor reflects on the peace promised to God's people in Isaiah 2.1-5 and how Jesus fulfils that promise.
Stan Higginson reflects on Psalm 46 and what it means to strop and look through life with the lenses of Advent and Christianity. Stan uses the work of C. S. Lewis and Alastair McGrath to do this.
Isaiah announced Jesus' birth 700 years in advance, and gave us four names to understand him by. Rachel Sheehan sees this as a gift from God.
Dawn Harrison reflects that God specifically asks all of us to exercise faith in things not seen, and challenges us to seek what that might be.
The book of Lamentations may seem an odd place to find a key lesson about hope, but Lamentations 3 is a remarkable chapter, according to David Brooke.
Continuing our Advent reflections, Sandra Jones reflects on Psalm 62 and offers some practical approaches as to how we as Christians should approach prayer and hope in God.
James Taylor continues our advent reflections by looking at Exodus 6.1-8 and the themes of covenant and hope.
Sam Nicholson continues our new advent series by reflecting on why God chose him to be blessed and how subsequently people today are blessed.
Philip Anderson is clear - talking snakes aren't his thing - but he wants us to be equally clear that hope wasn't extinguished when Adam and Eve fell from their place in Eden.
Mark Wade draws our reflections on kingship to a close as he draws strength from the invitation that flows from the throne of Jesus.
Adam Archer explores the way in which ultimately the cross displays Jesus' sovereignty above all else.
Rachel Martin explores the conundrum of Palm Sunday and the triumphal entry into Jerusalem. A funny looking king on a donkey turns every expectation on its head.
Andrew Turton reflects on Luke 7.36-50 and how Jesus' kingship challenged social conventions and expectations of the day.
Reflecting on the Calming of the Storm in Mark's Gospel, James Taylor reflects on how Jesus' interaction with the natural world shapes the way Christians see Jesus as King.
Will Gibbons explores the price of kingship by looking at how Jesus' birth as Messiah was foretold in the Old Testament and how the painful events of the passage reflect the cosmic battle between God and evil.
Alec Parkinson finds a lot in just two verses from Zechariah 9. There is a counter-cultural image of the king of peace on a donkey, but Alec challenges us to see both sides of the Messiah - Lord and Saviour.
Fran Humphry unpacks the shape of the short, simple prophecies of Haggai and glimpses a 'good king' in Zerubabbel.
Helen Weavers retells the story of Esther and the remarkable, courageous choices she made, despite the personal risks.
Steve Clarke marvels at the way Josiah 'swam against the stream' and probes the influences that shaped him.
Peter Walker reflects on the result of bad kingship as seen in 2 Kings chapter 17. Peter then draws out what it means for Christians today to be good leaders.
Garry Stott reflects on two passages 1 Kings 11.29-33 & 12.1-20 and asks the question of whether Solomon and Rehoboam were good kings, using the division of Israel and Judah as a reflective tool.
Joe Magill reflects on 1 Kings 6.11-37 Solomon building the temple. It's purpose and how we as Christians today are the temple with the Spirit dwelling in us.
Catherine Cosslett explores the emotions Solmon must have been feeling, and that even as he prays for wisdom, he displays wisdom.
Gordon James explores the shock value of the story of David and Bathsheba, David's greatest failure, and greatest life-lesson from God.
Eth Yates takes encouragement from David - a humble shepherd, and a poet, whose family line became the ancestors of Jesus himself.
Charles Etches reflects on a critical point in the relationship of David and Saul, where it becomes clear that the enmity flows just one way.
Frances Shoesmitth continues our reflection series on kingship and leadership by looking at the demise of Israel's first king Saul. We are then challenged to discern whether we are completely God's or do we let other things take over in our lives.
Hannah Archer reflects on 1 Samuel chapters 9-10 and how Saul had to be transformed by God before becoming a leader. Hannah then challenges us on what this could mean for us today.
Stan Higginson reflects on 1 Samuel 8 and the request for a king and what happens when our wills are not in line with God's.
Rachel Sheehan searches for the key to Samuel's success as a leader, and she's convinced it is that he listens, really listens, to God.
Judges 6 and 7 tell the story of a nervous, hesitant man - Gideon - transformed into a military leader. But he needs convincing by God first. Sue Fulford invites us into that story.
Ann Stein examines the startling characters of Deborah and Jael - two remarkable stand-out women leaders in the time before the kings.
Sandra Jones reflects on the lives of these three siblings and how their leadership shaped a nation.
James Taylor continues our reflection series What Kind of King is this? by looking at Joseph and his leadership in Genesis 41 and what lessons we can learn for leadership today.
Sam Nicholson wonders how God may be calling us to move at this time, as he called Abraham to move?
Noah is perhaps the first person in the Bible given the task of leadership by God - at a time of deep moral crisis. His leadership comes from his character, and his position as head of the family, but impacts on the whole of creation.
Gordon James reflects on the contribution of Martin Luther to a turning point in Christian - indeed in European and world - history!
Sue Thomas tells of the driving forces and life-changing events that led Henri Dunant to found the Red Cross.
David Brooke reflects that the story of James Hannington could be seen as a kind of religious cautionary tale, akin to Hilaire Belloc's. But no, it's a tale for our inspiration!
Though we know little about them, Mike Perrin encourages us to take inspiration from the little we have, and the little they wrote and left to us. After all, they were among the twelve!
Dot Gosling reflects on the life of Sweedish reformed cleric Laurentius Petri and the importance of piety in our faith journey today.
Joe Magill continues reflecting on Saints and heroic figures of the Christian faith by examining the life of King Alfred the Great and how we as Christians are influenced by the world around us.
Alec Parkinson delves into the stories of these patron saints of shoemakers, and discovers a tale of absolute devotion to their faith.
Lucy Haigh continues our reflections on Saints and heroic Christian figures. On the anniversary of her death, Lucy looks at the life of Rosa Parks and how her faith led to a truly world changing moment in history.
Helen Weavers continues our Saints and Sinners series, reflecting on the life of James the Just and how is ministry impacts the church today.
John Heeley reflects on the story of the The Seven Sleepers (or Holy Youth) of Ephesus challenging us to use a small amount of faith to achieve big things in God's name and power.
Peter Walker reflects on Florence Nightingale's passion, her intellect, her determination, and her unwillingness to be constrained by society's conventions.
James Taylor reflects on the life of Jomo Kenyatta and explores how his life can teach us about undertaking Christian mission.
Sam Nicholson admires the missionary zeal of Henry Martyn, working in a very different time from ours, but recognising the weaknesses of colonial evangelisation!
Catherine Cosslett reflects on what little we know directly of the life of St Luke, but how much we can see of what he stood for in what he wrote in his gospel and the book of Acts.
Gordon Fath reflects on what it was like for someone like Ignatius of Antioch to be part of the founding of the church, and what we can learn for today.
Sue Fulford reflects on the lives of Hugh Latimer and Nicholas Ridley and how their story can encourage our discipleship when we find our feet in the fire.
Rachel Martin shares a personal experience of God speaking to her through the writings and life of Teresa of Avila.
Tina Nicholson shares some thoughts on the life and faith of Edward the Confessor, a king who knew his King.
Stan Higginson reflects on the amazing work Elizabeth Fry did in terms of prison reform, but believes that were she alive today there would be plenty she would still want to challenge and change.
Rachel Sheehan reflects on how good communications begin with good listening to God,and shows how Ethelburga's life and ministry was built on that foundation.
Enthused by being introduced to Thomas Traherne's poetry, Christiane Cook urges not to be like those Traherne describes in his poem "Walking" as “having eyes yet never find the bliss in which they move” and so “never see nor love”.
Sue Fulford examines the life of Robert Grosseteste - a man of science and philosophy, but above all an example of deep Christian conviction and principles.
David Brooke relates the inspiring life of a little known, but pioneering priest - St John Leonardi, the Patron Saint of Pharmacists.
James Taylor shares the story of St Sergius and St Bacchus, and whether they are fictional or not, draws lessons for what a committed relationship looks like today, especially LGBTQ Christians.
Sandra Jones explores Tyndale's motivating passion for scripture, and the price he paid, and wonders what he would have made of the Message version?
Philip Anderson concludes our series for the Season of Creation, drawing inspiration from the life of St Francis, and the story of the widow's mite.
Fran Humphry shows us what a beautiful thing when giving flows freely in response to God's generosity in creation.
Helen Weavers wrestles with Jesus' challenge to the rich young man seeking eternal life, and connects it to our care of creation and each other.
David Brooke finds three steps to generosity - two in commands in Leviticus and Deuteronomy, and the final step in the story of Ruth and Boaz.
Peter Walker muses on what an alien would think was most precious to us - toilet rolls, perhaps - but concludes that God wants our hearts.
James Taylor brings the message of Malachi right into the midst of our conversations about the environment and asks whether we're robbing God?
David Brooke challenges us to a lifestyle that is simpler, more contented, and rooted in trust and generosity - one in which enough really is enough.
We may not see it, or even sense that it is coming, but there is future glory to come, Dawn Harrison reminds us.
Sue Thomas reflects on our need to connect with the miracle of creation, and become part of making the miracle.
Psalm 104 takes us into a place of play, delight and wonder, as well as dependence, confidence, and humility. And as it does so, it gives us a different foundation for expressing our confidence in God from our more traditional creeds - or at least, that's what David Brooke wants us to think about.
Andrew Turton shares some reflections on Wisdom - born out of his lockdown experiences of wandering around the Wigan landscape.
If we long to see the land healed, then we must call out in lament and repentance, says Dot Williams.
Joe Magill shares a favourite story from childhood, and finds a lesson in it that we can also find in the book of Nehemiah: "Remember who you are"
Catherine Cosslett wonders whether sometimes when God prunes, we try to graft back. It won't work, she reminds us.
Mark Wade confesses his lack of gardening skills, but encourages us to keep sowing the seed of the gospel.
Eth Yates reminds that in the midst of all creation, each of us is genuinely and individually loved by God.
In her first reflection for Church Wigan, Sandra Jones reminds us that Jesus is the expert on creation - not us.
Dot Gosling reminds us of the dangers of thinking we know best when it comes to the ways the world works. Jesus always knows better!
Rachel Sheehan reflects on poverty in all its forms, and wonders if we are all, in fact, poor?
David Brooke wonders what we can learn for today from the commandment to keep a sabbath year one in seven, and a jubilee year one in fifty. Don't be anxious is his message!
David Halliwell draws out three words of significance from the parable of the talents to encourage us in our care of creation: talent, ability and abundance.
Steve Clarke reminds us that our care of creation must be inspired by our love for the Creator.
God gives us care of the earth, and we've disturbed the delicate balance. What we do next, how we exercise our great freedom, is crucial, Frances Shoesmith reminds us.
Philip Anderson connects the incarnation with creation to make sense of how we should live in the world God has made.
David Brooke wonders whether we need cutting down to size to reset our perspective on creation as the storehouse of God's wisdom, rather than as a puzzle to work out and a problem to solve.
Sue Fulford encourages us to go with the grain of what God is doing, not follow the grudging example of Jonah. Why? Because God loves all that he has made - without exception!
Ann Stein reminds us that if all nature praises God, and we damage nature, we damage the praise of God. We need to take more care!
Imagine Steve Beck lying in the middle of the road in Devon, gazing at the stars. He hasn't gone mad, and you should try it too if you want to hold together that feeling of awe, wonder and smallness with the knowledge of being held in God's palm.
James Taylor launches our series for the International Season of Creation 2020 by reflecting on the sheer, humbling abundance of creation.
God did not create humans to be solitary beings - we are all made for community - says Steve Beck. Rublev's icon of the Trinity reminds us that God's circle is open to all.
Forgiving ourselves can be the hardest thing to do, but Christians need to learn self-compassion from Saint Paul, the master, says David Halliwell.
David Brooke shares a holiday read, 'Tennyson's Gift', and makes the case that gratitude is a whole-life issue for the Christian, not simply something some of us naturally have more of than others!
Some of us need plans for security more than others, admits Gordon Fath, but right now what we need more than plans is trust.
Carol Foster relates an experience of praying "Set me on fire" at New Wine, and encourages more of us to do the same if we want to see Wigan changed.
Andrew Turton shares his love of musicals, and encourages us all to be messengers, preparing the way of the Lord.
Starting with good foundations is essential, says Mark Wade, but he admits he isn't the one to give DIY advice! However, the important thing is to keep building on them.
Eth Yates introduces us to Graham Kendrick's song - Holy Overshadowing - an anthem for our times, perhaps??
Brokenness is part of life, Dawn Harrison reminds us, so if you are feeling cracked and broken let God fill those cracks and scars with gold.
Alec Parkinson shares a personal favourite icon, explains how icons work, and urges us to try praying with these 'windows onto heaven'.
Gordon James challenges us to live gospel values, not just preach them - that is worship!
Sue Elliott re-tells the parable of the Pencil Maker to remind us that whatever we do, wherever we are, we leave a mark. Let’s pray, she says, that God’s hope and beauty shine through.
Lindsay Yates tells of hearing and singing the hymn "In Christ alone" for the first time, and challenges us all to live inspired by its simple, condensed gospel message.
David Brooke shares a book entitled Miss Benson's Beetle - a book that is about so many topics, but chiefly friendship, and brings to mind a passage from the Apocrypha: Ecclesiastics 6.5-17.
We've done a lot of waiting, yes, but have we done enough waiting on God? That's the key question, says Dot Gosling.
Steve Clarke shares a simple souvenir carrying words that mean everything to one who has been far from God - "your name is carved on my hands".
James Taylor encourages us to recognise that God has a callng for each of us - he provides us with mentors, but wants us ultimately to 'go solo'.
Frank Hinds shares a moment of true horror and his own response in the form of a poem. Our only response in prayer can be "Thy kingdom come..."
Gill Lewis has been picking out songs to encourage people each day, but has had one stuck in her mind for a couple of months now - "Magnificent, marvellous, matchless love".
Joe Magill reckons that as a nation we use a cup of tea as an excuse to avoid just about everything, and we need to face up to our issues!
Lucy Haigh takes inspiration from the story of Rebekah and Isaac's first meeting, and encourages us to see God "graciously working behind the scenes" in unfathomable power.
Jeremy Thomas introduces us to the idea of an Anam Cara (the Irish term for a soul friend), but points to Jesus as the ultimate soul friend for every Christian.
Doreen Taylor has a message for the folically challenged - losing your hair means you're loved. And that's all part of becoming real.
Rachel Sheehan draws inspiration from Malcolm Duncan's poem, God gazers, and challenges our busyness. Dare we stop and gaze? It could make all the difference.
Simon Martin gives us an imagined response to Genesis 3.8-14, and the real tragedy of the fall.
Philip Anderson muses on the return to the British Library of one of the greatest manuscript bibles of the so-called Dark Ages. The Bible, though, he wants to say, is about piercing light, not darkness at all.
Peter Walker shares a story of failure from his early life, and takes inspiration from Daniel and his friends as they face fire.
Neil Cook is reminded of a trip into the bamboo forests of Malaysia, and retells the parable of the Bamboo - an example of laying down your life.
Lesley Hughes shares the experience of having Boxing Day as her birthday, and encourages us to look forward to the biggest party of all.
David Brooke goes low-brow with a reflection on comedy underdog stories and the choosing of the disciples.
Sam Nicholson reminds us that as Proverbs says: “A joyful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.” For her, that Jesus laughed goes without saying!
Frances Shoesmith shares something of the inspiring story - and the courage - of the Revd Florence Li Tim Oi, the first woman priest in the Anglican Communion, ordained by Frances's grandfather, the Bishop of Hong Kong at the time.
David Brooke takes inspiration from J.S. Bach and the cellist David Watkin, as he reflects on how we handle suffering. Can we come through it both dancing and praying? That's the challenge.
Sue Fulford shares her love of the film "A beautiful day in the neighbourhood", about the life of Fred Rogers, and urges us to make goodness attractive again.
As we conclude our series in the Psalms, Neil Cook encourages us to rise above our circumstances, and at all times "Raise our Hallelujah" as we practice for the worship in heaven!
Steve Beck encourages us to press 'reset' and get back to God's purposes by meditating on nature.
Lucy Haigh encourages us to have Prayer, Persistence and Faith, especially when we don't see or understand fully what God is saying to us - a crucial piece seems missing.
Look around you, says Alec Parkinson. Redirect your attention, and you'll find so much that makes you want to shout "Praise the Lord!"
David Brooke takes lessons from dancing - Lindy Hop to be precise - and applies them to the Christian life. In both cases, he says, it's all about connection, and connection leads to joy.
Unity is hard when we're struggling to disagree, says Dot Gosling, but it is a command of Jesus, vitally important, and truly beautiful to behold.
Our steps out of lockdown may be tentative, but Philip Anderson encourages us to seek a compelling vision of the future, drawing on the good things we have already received.
David Brooke reflects on references to youth and old age in Psalm 71, and sees a Psalmist for whom faith is a whole-life matter in every sense - as it was for Congressman John Lewis who died today after 60 years fighting for civil rights.
Where does my help come from? Quite simply, God, says Gill Lewis, though there's a bit more to it than that.
When we are secure in the love of God, it's safe to scream at him, says Peter Walker, and in any case, he knows our heart!
"Non nobis domine..." - "Not to us, Lord, not to us, but to your name give the glory, for the sake of your loving mercy and truth.". It's vital we keep that perspective, says Colin Hesketh, but is it truly our heart's desire, or do we love the glory too much?
Helen Weavers reflects on the power of being known by name and celebrates the way that Zoom worship during lockdown has put names to so many faces - and grown deep bonds of Christian fellowship.
Psalm 106 is a pretty easy whodunnit to solve, says Gordon Fath, but it isn't Israel's 'rap sheet' we need to learn from, it's the faithfulness of God when we falter or fall.
There are many ways to encounter God. Stan Higginson shares a personal experience of encounter with 'the other' on a deserted beach, to the background of pebbles grinding, and waves crashing.
Psalm 64 reminds Ann Stein of a phrase we've all had quoted to us: "Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words can never hurt me. It's not true for King David, and with so many ways to throw out hurtful words, we need to hear God's call to use our tongues wisely and well!
Our negative experiences of power, and the abuse of power, erode trust - but God does not abuse power, he uses it for the sake of righteousness and justice, and, Sam Nicholson says, he invites us to do the same.
Frank Hinds grapples with the meaning of suffering in this darkest of Psalms, but reminds us that there is no pit so deep that God is not deeper still.
Recognising the perfection of God, and our own perfections can be sobering, but also encouraging, Ian Woods reminds us.
James Taylor wants us to be clear: our passion for praising God needs to be matched with enthusiasm for seeing lives changed in practical ways - no less now, than in the Psalmist's time.
We need to zoom out (too much zooming!) and see the whole of this psalm to appreciate that it's upside down compared to many - or is it the right way up? David Brooke challenges to plant a flag and claim the territory when things are tough. The problem isn't with God!
Lesley Hughes draws out the themes of Psalm 80 - restoration and salvation - and urges us to pray as boldly in our time as Asaph, the writer of this Psalm, did in his.
Steve Clarke muses on the poison that enters us when we nurse a grievance, and shows how the Psalmist shows us a better way.
Mark Wade holds out God's promises to us, and his invitation, reminding us that he is 'radiant with light' in the darkest of times.
We may not feel like "It is good to praise the Lord" right now, says Rachel Sheehan, but it IS. And it is vitally important, for our wellbeing and those around us. Rachel has three top tips that might help.
Neil Cook is hooked by the Psalmist's invitation to "Incline your ears to the words of my mouth", and reflects on what we can do to make sure "that the generations to come might know, and the children yet unborn, that they in turn might tell it [the good news] to their children".
To become depressed is normal, and human. Doreen Taylor identifies numerous Bible heroes who became downcast, but eventually found a new perspective on their problems. Now it's our turn, she says.
Sue Fulford brings a simple message: stop comparing ourselves with others, and we'll see how blessed we are to be God's children.
Frances Shoesmith brings us a great story about counting your blessings and urges us to overcome our British gloom and shout God's praise!
Carol Close wonders whether this Psalm is just too challenging for some. But the backstory asks us to make the sacrifice of doing the right thing - and to leave judgement to God.
David Halliwell finds powerful and uncomfortable images in Psalm 68, but in the midst of them some comforting words to hold on to, but also to share.
Psalm 51 is deeply penitential, and we could fall into the trap of wallowing in our sin, but David Brooke points out that this is the Psalm that gives that great cry "O Lord, open our lips, and our mouths shall proclaim your praise". Don't wallow, he says - dwell on the goodness of God, and let the song of praise well up.
Praise comes naturally, says Gordon James, drawing on CS Lewis. For the Psalmist it comes naturally even in the bad times.
Lindsay Yates highlights the courtroom imagery of Psalm 50, connecting the original, contemporary, and timeless meaning in the Psalm.
Joe Magill reflects on the importance and value of places and things - but only as pointers to the glory of God, and prompts for our worship!
Eth Yates reminds us that when we experience God as distant or absent, actually he is there - just waiting to be noticed.
Sue Elliott helps us see how Psalm 42 speaks into real-life situations, and shares a favourite poem.
Dawn Harrison recommends simple ways of ensuring that we still trust in God, whatever trials we face.
Rachel Martin takes us through an imaginary conversation, to remind us that the answer is to delight ourselves in the Lord!
Colin Hesketh helps us see that the call to taste and see is the call to become fully involved and fully reliant on God.
There's bad news about us, and good news - but the good news wins hands down, says Sue Thomas!
Taking inspiration from a couple of children's fictional characters, Gordon Fath wants us to be people with a jewel of joy in our hearts.
What would the great leaders of the past have made of the present, asks Stan Higginson?
If anything good has come from the pandemic so far, it's in terms of the positive impact on the environment. Many of us are taking the opportunity to meet with God through creation, says Sam Nicholson, but we must meet with him in his Word too.
Psalm 119 verse 1 is troublesome for the translators, but it is all about integrity, according to David Brooke - which is a very different thing from what in the modern world we call authenticity.
To be an authentic follower of Jesus, we've got to be honest with God - one of those lessons to learn from the Psalms, says Steve Beck.
Lucy Haigh encourages us to take some simple steps to break through in prayer, starting with putting down roots in God's love.
Alec Parkinson shows us how Psalm 86 is a simple masterclass in prayer, and leaves us with some questions to help us in our own prayers.
Jes Rusling reflects that even if we are struggling with prayer, we don't have to wait for original thoughts to come, we need to get on with it!
Dot Gosling rejoices that the Psalms - written at a very particular time in history - still manage to illuminate this time in history with a laser-like focus.
Words from the Psalms appear everywhere in our liturgy, as Jeremy Thomas notices today. Psalm 43 reminds us of our need for God's help.
The word of God - the law of God - is a wonderful thing, says David Brooke. In fact, far from being the opposite of freedom, it is perfect freedom.
Psalm 85 addresses the good of the land, and the priority of mercy and truth, righteousness and peace, being held together for the good of the Kingdom of God.
With such an abrupt ending, Neil Cook concludes that the point is being on the journey. "Are we still up for the journey?" is his key question.
A #firstworldproblem in the Rice household prompts Ali to ask why we don't think to pray sooner when troubles come!
Not listening to the voice of God led to a shipwreck for Paul and his companions. He still speaks, if only we will listen, and Frances Shoesmith urges us to do exactly that as we continue through lockdown.
Paul, in a witty moment, says to King Agrippa: "Paul says “I pray to God that not only you, but also all who hear me today will become just as I am-apart, of course from these chains” " Sam Nicholson asks who we want to be like us?
When it comes to sharing the gospel, Ali Rice is clear: follow Paul's example, not Festus', and don't put the conversation off.
Christiane Cook wants to emphasise that more important for Paul - and for us - than being a citizen of Rome (or anywhere else), we are citizens of heaven.
There are times - and this may be one of them - when it is hard to discern God's purposes, and our vocation seems unclear. Sue Fulford take's heart from Paul's example of faithfulness at just such a time.
Acts 22 presents David Brooke with a puzzle - where is the heart of the passage? He concludes that it's the warning "they will not accept your testimony", which is the very reason we must not give up testifying!
Rachel Sheehan loves talking about Jesus, but she knows it is harder for most of us. Paul is our example, she reckons.
Sometimes it is hard to make any decision at all - even the most basic. Paul faced some pretty tough decisions, and found himself going against the advice of well meaning and prayerful friends. Sam Nicholson reflects on how his example can help us.
As Paul prepares to set off for Jerusalem from Ephesus, it is a heart-wrenching farewell, but a necessary journey! Neil Cook reflects on the path of obedience in a time of danger.
Jeremy Thomas makes sense of a riot, and shows us how the gospel challenges the idols that become our status quo.
Dot Gosling shares an encounter with another disciple of Jesus across language barriers, but united by the Holy Spirit.
David Brooke identifies four cameos from Acts 18 and relates them to the parable of the Sower from Matthew 13.
The challenge is to "come and worship". Mark Wade asks what that might look like in the future.
Sue Fulford takes the examples of David Livingstone and St Paul and urges us to keep moving forward, even if God does need to use, and correct, our little detours from time to time!
After a definite call to Macedonia, but in the midst of really difficult circumstances, salvation breaks in, and the question is "What must I do to be saved?"
Frank Hinds reflects on the stark contrast between conflict handled well in the first half of Acts 15, and a final fallout in the second half, and he challenges us to attend to the unresolved conflict in our lives.
Difficult dynamics are normal for any group, family or church as we mature towards a healthy way of functioning, and that's particularly true at times of stress. Dawn Harrison reflects on how that was true for the early church in Acts 15.1-21, and is still true for us today. We need to be a little kinder with ourselves, she concludes, and know that Jesus is in the mess not just the wonder.
Rachel Sheehan explains why the gospel should give us a jolt, and make us sit up and take notice - especially at a time like this.
Sam Nicholson urges us to remember the works that God has done in our lives, and proclaim the Good News.
Ann Stein takes a look at the first planned mission of the church, as Saul and Barnabas 'get out of the boat' of their comfort zone, and head into opposition on Cyprus.
Philip Anderson contrasts the deaths of Herod and Jesus at a time when persecution was well underway, and yet the gospel was spreading like wildfire.
Christiane Cook finds a lesson about peace in a story about imprisonment under maximum security.
David Brooke reflects on the image of Paul - the one-time persecutor - meeting with his victims, and powerfully reconciled.
David Brooke reflects on Saul's conversion experience as one of the three great turning points of the book of Acts.
Will Gibbons launches our new series of reflections on the lives of saints and Christian heroes, and begins with William and Catherine Booth - founders of the Salvation Army. The anniversary of Catherine's death falls on the 5th October.