"Reaping A Harvest Of Thanks" was the theme for our Harvest Thanksgiving Celebration. The music ministry of Classic Brass (from Box Hill Corps) added a real note of praise to the day. 110 worshippers were delighted by the visual display and opportunities for corporate thanksgiving, which included the presentation of their 'non-perishable' food offerings in support of Chelsea Corps' welfare programme. A special highlight was the male voice item, Christ in me.
Eighty people then attended the 'harvest-style' fellowship luncheon following and enjoyed the delicious pasties, variety of salads, fruit salad, ice-cream and cream that was further evidence of God's super-abundant provision toward us.
In considering 2 Corinthians 9:6-15, we rediscovered that God is a God of abundance not scarcity. He gives bountifully that we may share generously (v8) and experience His righteousness displayed (v9). When we give generously, God blesses us bountifully (v10). When we give generously, others are blessed bountifully (v11). When we give generously, God Himself is blessed bountifully (v12).
A modern paraphrase of Song 935 was shared and appreciated by all.
"We plough and sow with tractors and bale the new-mown hay;
We reap the fields with combines to bring our harvest day;
But all the powers of science, the life of root and seed,
The air and earth and water are gifts to meet our need.
See his gifts within us around us and above?
Then thank the Lord, O thank the Lord For all his love."
Hallelujah!
