Reflection from Rev Jules Harris

Mathew 28:16-20

The Great Commission

16Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. 17When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. 18Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely, I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” (NIV)

Last week I had the huge privilege to be invited to Windsor castle. What a blessing to attend evensong in St Georges Chapel and to share communion with my fellow Priests. St Georges chapel are the Patrons of our churches here in Appledore, Northam and Westward Ho!

During our stay we were treated to exclusive viewing of the archive documents with some dating back to the 11th Century. One things that stood out for me was a 15th century copy of the Bible written in English by John Wycliffe an English scholastic philosopher, Christian reformer, Catholic priest, and a theology professor at the University of Oxford. Wycliffe is traditionally believed to have advocated or made a vernacular translation of the Vulgate Bible into Middle English.

Through this amazing experience, I have reflected upon the current sad and devasting affairs of our Church and felt secure in the knowledge, that no matter what the circumstances, one thing remains that our Lord and Saviour will be with us until the end of time and that our church, in its current form, has survived nearly 500 years.

And so, when we are feeling hopeless, maybe these words will help

And surely, I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

God of glory,

you nourish us with your Word

who is the bread of life:

fill us with your Holy Spirit

that through us the light of your glory

may shine in all the world, until the end of time.

We ask this in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord.

AMEN

Common Worship: Collects and Post Communions, material from which is included here, is copyright © The Archbishops' Council 2000