Do You Love as Jesus Loved?

7:9 Feels His Joy!

The volunteers at church were so proud of the progress the ladies had made to improve their English; the students had worked hard all year, managing to juggle the demands of young families while navigating life so far from their birth country. It was time for a celebration!

Many of the Bangladeshi ladies had never had the opportunity to visit the countryside in the UK. They were excited, not to mention brave, to go on this daytrip together.

They got off the bus at the top of the hill, overlooking a beautiful panorama; God’s creation is so good! Underfoot, the track was narrow and uneven with awkward steps, the brambles and stinging nettles needed to be avoided. Some people were worried by this unfamiliar terrain but they were comforted by Sarah’s cry, ‘We are on an adventure!’. As the group descended, the path opened out, allowing pairs to relax and chat, and to pose for pictures with the wildlife and wonderful views.

Entering the village at the foot of the hill, they followed the canal and listened as Sarah explained a little bit about the industrial revolution and the links between the cotton mills around Manchester and workers in South Asia. After a long walk, the group enjoyed a rest and some refreshments in the village park. Later, everyone celebrated as each person received certificates for their writing tests; several of the students had excelled all expectations through what they had achieved.

The caring relationships which had grown during the year enabled the ladies to share this special moment together. Much prayer had gone into the preparation of this day; God’s provision could be seen in every element, from the finance for the bus and the perfect weather to the unexpected tears of joy as the ladies engaged in the activities which had been lovingly prepared by the volunteers.

Jesus said, ‘I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete. My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.’ (John 15: 11-12). Please pray that Jesus will graft new branches into his vine and that the spiritual fruit of joy so freely given by Jesus, will be known by Muslims across Greater Manchester.

Photo provided by Sarah at 7:9