Weekly Update – 3rd May

I had the honour of meeting our new, shiny and polished, first female ABC (that’s code for Arch Bishop of Canterbury) during the reception of the Chrism Mass, April 2nd on Maundy Thursday.

The Chrism Mass reminds us of our oneness in Christ through Baptism and its holy anointing.

During the liturgy, the entire assembly is called to renew its baptismal promises; deacons and priests also renew their vow of obedience to, the Sovereign, Archbishop and their commitment to serve God’s people.

For some of us we may choose to renew vows of marriage at significant miles stones. Later this year, I will have the opportunity of sharing this with a couple that have been married for 25 years.

There are some notable vows made in the Bible: –

Hannah: Promised to give her child to the Lord’s service if she was granted a son (1 Samuel 1:11).

Jacob: Vowed to serve God if he was protected and provided for on his journey (Genesis 28:20-22).

Jephthah: Made a vow before fighting the Ammonites (Judges 11:30-31).

 

The following are some of God’s vows:

  • The Promise to Noah (The Rainbow Covenant): God promised never again to destroy all life on earth with a flood.
  • The Promise to Abraham: God swore by himself that he would bless Abraham and make his descendants as numerous as the stars.
  • The Covenant with David: God vowed that one of David’s descendants would reign on his throne forever, a prophecy pointing to Jesus Christ.
  • The Promise of Salvation: God vowed that Jesus Christ would defeat Satan, referenced as a promise of victory over evil.
  • The Promise of Presence and Provision: God promises to never leave his people, to provide for them (Psalm 23:1), and to strengthen them.
  • The New Covenant: God promises to write His law on hearts and forgive sins.

Whatever your belief and thoughts, personally I love vows, and the opportunity to make and renew a vow, centres me as a child of God, made from dust, a little lower than angels.

Rev Claude