Sacred Discussion Group 4th June 2016
With a few people away for the Spring Bank Holiday week, again just five met to share breakfast at 8.30 on a lovely Spring morning. The attendance figures rose to 11 for the discussion group at 9.00.a.m.
This month the reading of the historic Book of Exodus had many of us gripped by the drama of the plagues with which God, through Moses and his brother Aaron, afflicted the oppressive Egyptians until they released their slaves and they set out on their journey to the Promised Land, hence their exodus.
For some our childhood memories, of stories told in Sunday School, were re- awakened, with much detail and drama added.
God redeemed his people, those he created and loved, from slavery, and, in the desert he gave The Ten Commandments, the law which they were to live by.
The Ten Commandments have survived the test of time, indeed our country’s democracy is based upon these laws. It would be a perfect world if we were all able to abide by them, at all times. Many countries are envious of our democracy and the laws which are the foundation of this culture.
We weren’t all word perfect on the Ten Commandments or even their order so we were gratified to accept Rev Dr Phil Moon’s inclusion in his notes of a paraphrased version by the American Quaker, Elton Trueblood.
‘Above all else love God alone;
Bow down to neither wood nor stone.
God’s name, refuse to take in vain;
The Sabbath rest with care maintain.
Respect your parents all your days;
Hold sacred human life always.
Be loyal to your chosen mate;
Steal nothing, neither small nor great.
Report, with truth, your neighbour’s deed;
And rid your mind of selfish greed.’
All are welcome to join us when we next meet, Saturday 2nd July, to learn more, and later the same day join us for our B-B-Q to celebrate the Queen’s 90th Birthday.