The Shepherd
Notice the bridge, sheep, trees, dog, bluebells, transmitted light, and (not pictured here) birds and thistles.
Verse
“I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me – just as the Father knows me and I know the Father – and I lay down my life for the sheep… there shall be one flock and one shepherd.” John 10:14-16
About
This beautiful stained glass window, by Scottish artist Roland Mitton, was installed in memory of John Carrie, our minister from 1971-2008. From the peace of Heaven above, go down over Highland mountains and the Forth Road Bridge, through forest and pasture, then deep into the roots of our community here in Queensferry.
Reflect
- What makes a good shepherd?
- What does it mean to be a sheep in Jesus’ flock and be known by Him?
- How do you feel about Jesus laying down His life for you?
- What are the implications for you of there being one flock?
Pray
Heavenly Father, thank you for sending Your son to rescue, inspire and teach me how to live freely and fully in this world. Your love for me, and for all of Your flock, is awesome. Please help me each day to know Jesus better, hear His voice more clearly, and follow Him more closely.
….[add your own words]….
…. In Jesus name, Amen.
The Knight
“Put on the full armour of God, so that you can take your stand against the Devil’s schemes… with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace… Take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.” Eph 6:11-17
About
This window is a memorial to members of our congregation lost in World War I. Instead of contemporary uniform, the subject wears the armour of God. We are all called to wear this armour, and to take our stand under Christ’s authority and banner (symbolised by the cross).
Reflect
Reflect upon, then visualise wearing, each piece of the armour of God:
- Helmet of salvation
- Breastplate of righteousness
- Belt of truth
- Feet ready with the gospel of peace
- Shield of faith
- Sword of the Spirit / word
- Pray
Almighty God, help me to understand what it means to wear your armour and take my place in your majestic army. Thank you for rescuing me from the enemy, accepting and training me as one of your own. Help me to remember that you already won the war through Jesus Christ, and in everything I do to give you the glory, thanks and praise.
.[add your own words]… Amen
Queen Margaret
Notice Queen Margaret standing with her crown and sceptre. Behind her a ship on rough seas, and ”Insignia of the Burgh of the Queen’s Ferry” in Latin.
Verse
“For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.”
Matthew 25:35-36 NIV
About
Margaret Atheling (c.1046-1093) was an Anglo-Saxon Princess who fled England to arrive by boat in Scotland around 1068. She married King Malcolm III in 1070, becoming Queen of Scots. She devoted herself to serving God and the poor, and led church and social reform across Scotland including the ‘Queens Ferry’ for pilgrims crossing the Forth. The Catholic Church named her a Saint in 1250.
Reflect
- How could we identify those most in need in our community?
- Identify 1 practical way you can help.
- Think of someone you could visit in hospital or prison.
- How can we better welcome the many strangers who visit Queensferry?
- What about all those who pass by on one of the three bridges?
Pray
Father, thank you for Margaret’s inspiring example, work and legacy in Queensferry. Help us to recognise and help those in most need for whatever reason in our community, and in so doing to better-serve you. We also pray for your blessing on all those who journey past ….[add your own words]…. In Jesus name, Amen.
The Banners
Look at the large banners around the walls, the string of small banners under the balcony, and other symbols and images you can see around the church.
Verse
“May the Lord answer you when you are in distress
May the name of the God of Jacob protect you…
May he give you the desire of your heart and make all your plans succeed.
May we shout for joy over your victory and lift up our banners in the name of our God.”
Psalm 20 NIV
About
Around the church you will see many colourful fabric banners. The large ones draw on key Bible passages themed as actions (e.g. ‘Run’ and ‘Kneel’), seasons (e.g. Christmas, Harvest) and principles such as trade justice. The string of ‘bunting’ banners at the back was made to represent each group associated with the church, initially for an event in 2008.
Reflect
Choose a large banner and reflect on how well it illustrates the text
Choose a group’s banner and reflect what they could bring to church life
What verse and design would you choose for a new banner?
What images or objects would you like to have at home or elsewhere to remind you of God’s word?
Pray
Lord God, thank you for your Word and the many reminders and illustrations of this in our lives. Help me to see and appreciate your Word and your Truth wherever I may go. Thank you for all the groups associated with your church, particularly …[pray for one church group and any others which come to mind]…
…. In Jesus name, Amen.
