By Revd Philip Smith

This Thursday is momentous when our Prime Minister visits the President of the United States of America, and someone we know very well becomes a Bishop. I’m always intrigued by Jesus’ relationships with other readers who are nothing like him and I often imagine conversations Jesus has with the disciple Peter.

Peter: Jesus.

Jesus: yes Peter, this better be good.

Peter: I’m not sure you should go round calling the leaders a ‘brood of vipers’.

Jesus: Why not! They are a brood of vipers.

On another occasion he says of Herod ‘Go and tell that fox for me’ Luke 13:32

Jesus doesn’t always appear to hold back as I guess he sees through all the layers of bravado and sees them for who they really are. He’s certainly not fond of hypocrites, a word that comes from Greek actors wearing different masks as they play different characters. Most people can spot a fake a mile away. I doubt if they would do it, but I think all leaders should have to wear badges like Formula One Drivers, showing who sponsors them. Perhaps there should also be a sign at every meeting between them that reads: ‘Leave your egos at the door’.

For those of us in the Wycombe Deanery we have a special relationship with our new Bishop because we know him and have grown to appreciate his servant heart. We can see why he has been given this opportunity and great responsibility especially at a time when all Bishops are under a spot light. Please pray for Dave & Helen, we know he does for us.

Sadly, when world leaders and politicians behave in dubious ways we are not surprised, as expectations of integrity are often low. Leaders in the Church however are rightly held to a greater standard as we and they seek to follow our Lord’s example especially when he says that the Kings of the Gentiles Lord it over their subjects, it should not be like that with you.

Bishops, Prime Ministers and Presidents hold great responsibility, but they are human like us all and like us need much prayer as they seek to serve, but they are no more or less important than any of us. Jesus said that if we want to be the greatest, then we must become the least. It’s why seeing Pope Francis washing feet is so powerful. Pray for him too.

Here’s Peter and Jesus again.

Peter: Lord, what do you want me to do?

Jesus: What part of act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with me don’t you understand Peter.

Peter: Don’t you mean walk humbly with God.

Jesus: That’s what I said.

Always remember that the most important person on Airforce One is the pilot.

Keep the faith, but never ever to ourselves.

Love Philip x
PS It’s only a week till Lent. How might we do it differently? Please reread Lucy’s blog below.
*The first rule of the All Blacks.