Growth. Scripture, reflection and prayer.

2 Peter 1:3-8

His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness. Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature, having escaped the corruption in the world caused by evil desires. For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love. For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Reflection. In the heart of this passage comes a list of things that are all about growth, 'For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith...' These qualities are all about discipleship.

On the wall in the church on St. Martin's without Stamford there is a memorial plaque to a man who exhibited these qualities. I love this description of an obvious Christian disciple. To this list is added a lovely one-liner, 'and he was a rare cricketer.' Clearly, he was a well rounded character. 

This church is dear to Ruth and me. We married there!

Prayer. May we grow in holiness, Lord Jesus. Amen.