Dear Friends,

The British Prime Minister Harold Wilson coined the famous phrase, "A week is a long time in politics" in the 1960s to describe how quickly political fortunes and public opinion can change. It seems to be no different today, as we realise, we are heading for our fifth prime minister within as many years, with perhaps little hope that whoever occupies Number 10, will make much difference to the lives of ordinary people. The huge issues of our society: including the economy, health and social care, education, and law and order (to name but a few), all seem as intractable as ever. It is possible to become despairing or cynical at such times.

St Paul, writing at a time when the Roman authorities were anything but sympathetic to his faith, still encouraged Christians to respect their rulers who, he argued, had been placed there by God. He wrote to Timothy: "I urge, then, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness."

So rather than joining the rush to criticise Keir Starmer, or place unrealistic hopes in Andy Burnham, this week let’s pray for them, for our MPs and for all in government:

Give wisdom to all in authority;

and direct this and every nation in the ways of justice and of peace;

that we may honour one another, and seek the common good. Amen.

Rev Fran