2009 – A Kingdom Year

By Liz Beaton

Again he asked, “What shall I compare the kingdom of God to? It is like yeast that a woman took and mixed into a large amount of flour until it worked all through the dough.” Luke 13:20-21

From one man he made every nation of men that they should inhabit the whole earth; and he determined the times set for them and the exact places where they should live. Acts 17:26

It is no accident that you and I are living here, in Ipswich, at this time and in this season. We have been born here, or called here for a time and a purpose.

In the same way that yeast influences its surroundings in a subtle but overpowering way, so we are Christ’s Ambassadors, here to pray, to serve, to witness and to represent and advance His Kingdom in this town.

As the year draws towards its close, and we look back over the past twelve months, there is great evidence of God at work in the town. There is still a long way to go; much pain, many broken lives, huge issues to pray for and address, but much to give thanks for.

I have been thinking about just some of the positives, and am aware there are probably many more. Did you know for example that, over the last twelve months:–

The Town Pastor scheme has spread across Suffolk. We now have Town Pastors working in six towns – Ipswich, Bury St Edmunds, Newmarket, Sudbury, Woodbridge and Stowmarket – and Felixstowe and Lowestoft are recruiting! In Ipswich, amazing answers to prayer are happening on the streets weekend after weekend
Talitha Koum has made huge strides forward, and planning application is due to go in to Suffolk Coastal planning department very early in the New Year. The team are so thankful to everyone who is offering prayer, financial and practical support
Pentecost saw around 3,000 people gather on the Cornhill – the sound of praise and prayer was heard across the town as the Church united
Coffeebreak – the initiative that offers companionship and conversation to those who speak other languages – has increased from one group to five, and other towns in Suffolk are showing an interest in starting groups
Link – the weekly meetings for those in the 18+ group that take place in a coffee shop on the Waterfront on Monday evenings – has been launched and become established. 70+ people are regularly coming together to discuss, encourage and grow together in faith
Network Ipswich is becoming a focal point for information and encouragement, as well as the central point for Ipswich in Prayer. Stories are being posted – and read - regularly, drawing people with similar ideas together and opening up new possibilities and ministries
Re-new – the new initiative for women – launched in September with a day conference and is now holding bi-monthly meetings for women to fellowship, grow, and be encouraged
Heart for Ipswich has recently appointed Hannah Cook as an administrator, and also held a meal attended by leaders of seventeen Christian organisations in the town where some vital networking took place and links were made
The Ipswich Community Gospel Choir has been formed and launched – singing over and into the town
Leaders of Churches and Christian organisations continue to meet weekly to pray for the town and we are seeing many answers to prayer, and receiving direction from God as we seek His face together

That’s just some of it!

I’m sure there’s loads more, including many ways that God has been moving in local Church settings and communities. So be encouraged!!!!!!

Why not come along and join us in thanksgiving, prayer and worship on January 16^th at 7.30pm at Burlington, as we commit the town, the Church and ourselves to God for 2010 at ‘Crown Him with Many Crowns’. It’s always a great time of celebration as well as dedication. Our guest speaker will be George Miller

Do you have stories of God at work? Send them in to Network Ipswich to share and encourage others. Good news stories are not always high on the national media agenda but are regularly featured on our website

Do you have a vision, a dream, a passion, a seed of an idea that you believe God has given you? Are you wondering whether others are thinking along similar lines? Contact us, either at Network Ipswich or Ipswich in Prayer, and we will meet with you, pray with you and try to connect you with like-minded others

“To him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.” (Ephesians 3:21)