I recently had the privilege of leading an Annual Covenant Renewal Service at Studley Methodist Church. Covenant services are often held at the beginning of the calendar year but at Studley they chose to observe it in September near the start of the Methodist church year.  The Covenant Service emphasises that the Christian’s relationship with God is a deep, broad and enduring bond. In the introduction to the service we read ‘The emphasis of the whole service is on God’s readiness to enfold us in generous love, not dependent on our deserving. Our response, also in love, springs with penitent joy from thankful recognition of God’s grace.’ During the service itself we recall ‘In this covenant God promises us new life in Christ. For our part we promise to live no longer for ourselves but for God.’

How this works out, on our part, varies and has its challenges. We say we are prepared to accept God’s purpose for us. We recognise that when it comes to serving Christ there are many ways this can go, some of which are easy and some difficult. What might this look like in practice?

Well, I said, maybe it can be a bit like in the story  Horton Hatches the Egg by Dr Seuss! Here’s a link to a video version. Discuss!?..