There are printed songbooks available for those who have difficulty reading the overhead projection screen and there is also an induction loop for those with hearing aids if you sit in the middle section of the church. Ladies’ toilets are located in the back hall on the left and gentleman’s toilets are through the doorway in the church on the right as you enter. Please ask if you need any help. After the morning service, tea, coffee and other refreshments are available in the back hall, please join us.

You may remember from last week that I listed five things from the letter to the Hebrews that are necessary if I am to enjoy the ‘rest’ of God in a consistent way – the word of God (which judges me), the Priest of God (who represents me), the mercy of God (which acquits me), the grace of God (which strengthens me), and the people of God, (who encourage me). This is from a straightforward reading of Hebrews 4:11-16. I looked at the word of God last Sunday, as the writer brings it to his readers in chapters 5&6, and it convicts me that I need to press on to maturity, to grow in my faith, and move from the baby stage. I need therefore a firmer grasp as to the One who represents me, the One who invites me into the presence of my heavenly Father, and on whose merits I receive mercy and grace. This is what we are considering today – the credentials of Jesus to represent His family on earth in the throne-room of heaven, and to minister to perfection on their behalf . The old line of priests, fathered originally by Aaron, was only instituted for a time as a necessary covering for sins committed under the law of Moses. Now, however, ‘a better hope is introduced, by which we draw near to God’ (7 verse 19). This High Priest brings us ‘near to God’! The priests under the old covenant could never do that, because they all had to keep their distance (except the High Priest on the Day of Atonement). Let us ‘draw near with faith’ this morning, as we marvel at the High Priest of our confession, what He has achieved, and what He continues to achieve in the power of His endless life.

We’ve now confirmed with Elizabeth Bowden (Ted’s wife) that the thanksgiving service for Ted’s life will be here at 1:30pm on Friday afternoon. There will be a reception in the hall afterwards for an hour or so. All are invited. (There will be a cremation at Beckenham at 10.30am at which only immediate family will be present.)

We’ve also had some sad news closer to us as a fellowship this week, for dear Jack has gone to be with the Lord. He was admitted to hospital on Wednesday/Thursday having become critically ill, and passed away at 3:45pm yesterday afternoon (Saturday). Our prayers are very much with Joan and both sides of the family.

In amongst all this, Christmas is upon us! Let me give you some diary dates: