“Trinity” is a word which was coined to refer to the unique Three-in-One existence of God as Father, Son and Spirit. Not surprisingly, there was no word handy, in any language, to meet this need. The Sunday after Pentecost has for many centuries been an occasion for special reflection on God’s trinitarian nature. Andrew Goddard will help us reflect on this as he preaches today.
One important implication of the Trinity is that the Persons of the Godhead had been in loving relationship with one another for all eternity before the world began. Think of what a profound meaning this brings to the biblical statement, “God is love” (1 John 4:8)! That in turn gives a deep meaning to our duties to love God and to love one another.
I can think of at least two reasons why we may be reluctant to speak about love. Firstly, it seems too obvious: doesn’t it go without saying? Secondly, it is very difficult. Anyone who thinks that it is easy to put aside one’s own wants and seek the best for another person has never tried it. But perhaps we need to speak about love more often, and really strive to love God and one another.
It’s a wonderful thing that people come to church because we want to. I’m so grateful for that. But if we are driven by love, we should also come for the sake of others. As the apostle John wrote, “Let us love one another”. I hope we are making friends at church. It is a good time for this at the moment, as there are quite a few new people at St Jude’s.