Spring Harvest Day 5: Homeward Bound

I can’t believe it’s all over for another year, except of course it isn’t. I have engaged with the Apostle’s Creed in a way that is more than historical, more than intellectual, more than theological even. I have been encouraged in my ministry to my family even more than my work, which has to be a good thing. And although I arrived at Spring Harvest feeling that I needed a huge hug from God, I have actually been taught something about the love that God has for those in my care, and their need for hugs too.

There wasn’t a Big Start today, so we had to get up and get dressed for Kids’ clubs and the final celebration. I think I made it through 3 worship songs and the beginning of Michelle Guinness’ address, before I received a text from my man (who doesn’t do God and had stayed behind to pack) needing help. 3 worship songs, a few words and a revelation from God that I wasn’t expecting or maybe even wanting and will take a while to work through once home. So home we are. Tired, happy, inspired, and equipped with books, DVDs, CDs and a green monkey called Bob. We have some wonderful family memories of surviving the water and fairground rides, we have met up with friends that we haven’t been in contact with except for facebook for far too long, and made some new ones too.

Spring Harvest Day 2: The Unfathomable Father (Superfly Guy)

How chuffed was I to get to the Big Top for the Big Start all age worship and discover that we are focussing on superheroes in the kids’ clubs? As everyone else tied coats and cardies around their necks, I swirled the snuggly cape I had just happened to bring with me. So, superheroes are travelling with us this week, in drama, dance, and even costume – the children came back from their activities wearing capes fashioned from bin-liners and highly decorated masks.

Our Bible study began in earnest today, as we looked at the opening lines of the Apostles’ Creed. I believe in God the Father: unbelievable?

Our God who is big and strong and All-mighty, loves us as a father loves a child. We are dear and precious to him and he will protect us and guide us and be there for us. How wonderful. How painful for those whose fathers are  more fallible than  most. Michelle Guinness in the Home Space, one of the seminars on offer after the main teaching, quipped with us that for some, father was spelt MOTHER. The Bible does indeed contain images of God that are more maternal than paternal. Maybe the opening lines of our creed should be ‘I believe in God the Ultimate Parent’?

You are strong, and your strength protects me,      guides me, comforts me.

You are strong, and your gentleness surprises me, warms me.

You are strong, and your strength strengthens and enables me to be strong too.