January 17, 2025

Dear Friends, 

This Sunday we will continue our sermon series focusing on the the story of David, a shepherd boy who became the king of Israel. Last week we focused on the anointing of David  by the Prophet Samuel and we learned that God had chosen and called David not because of his appearance or experience but that he had a “heart after God”. This week we will explore probably one of the most well known stories of the Bible and that is David and Goliath. We often characterize this story as a “children’s story” but it is for adults as well. We all face our giants. For some the giant could be discouragement. For some the giant could be a disease or addiction. For some the giant could be economic hardship. For some the giant could be a strained relationship or divorce. We all face our giants. 1 Samuel 17 tells the improbable story of David, who with nothing but a sling shot and faith in the Living God was able to face this giant Goliath and triumph. The key point is that that Spirit of God was with David as he confronted Goliath. Where others were scared and afraid of the bully tactics and trash talk, David trusted in his experience and skill (he had brought down a bear and lion) but even more trusted in God. He found a strength and confidence believing that the Living God was with him to face the giant. The battle belongs to the Lord. What about us? When we are facing the “giants” of our lives who are we trusting? Have we enlisted God to help us face our giants? Please join me on Sunday as we explore this great story on a message entitled “In The Face Of Giants”.  

Our Tuesday Morning Bible Study (10 am) began this week and will continue again next Tuesday morning. We are studying the faith and experiences of Women in the New Testament. Everyone is welcome to join!

Thank you to the guys who enjoyed our monthly lunch at Lena’s Roti and Doubles. It was good food and fellowship. We were also appreciative of the ice cream and doubles which were on the house. Our thanks to Nila for her generosity. 

This coming week the Board and Session will meet on Tuesday night.  We continue to pray for our treasurer Andie Markus who is recovering from a heart attack in December. I am happy to report that Andie is doing better. He is following up with his family doctor and cardiologist.

St. Thomas a Becket Anglican Church have two Interim Priests serving their congregation as they (along with the Bishop of the Dioceses of Toronto) are beginning  the process of searching for a new priest after the departure of Rev. David Matthews last December.  The Rev. Renata Kok and Rev. Paul Walker are sharing administrative and worship leadership responsibilities.  

Have a lovely weekend.

Pastor Ian