Daily ScriptureFinally, all of you, have unity of spirit, sympathy, love for one another, a tender heart, and a humble mind. Do not repay evil for evil or abuse for abuse; but, on the contrary, repay with a blessing. It is for this that you were called—that you might inherit a blessing. (1 Peter 3:8)Daily ReflectionO that we could all live like this, with these characteristics – these cares for one another – as a church, as a community, and within our own families. God longs for the day when humanity will do this. That we have the same goals and all work towards them. That we are responsive to the needs of others – with willing hearts. That we see and treat everyone the same way we wish to be seen and treated. That we are sensitive and caring towards others. That we encourage one another and rejoice in the success of others.Some of these things we do some of the time; God is waiting for it to be the norm for all people all of the time. He has even given us an example of how to live like this. In addition, God is waiting to bless us! Revd David
Daily ScriptureFor the Lord’s sake accept the authority of every human institution, whether of the emperor as supreme, or of governors, as sent by him to punish those who do wrong and to praise those who do right. (1 Peter 2.13-14)Daily ReflectionWe are promised a new exhibition, ‘Nero the man behind the myth’, at the British Museum. It will not be easy to clear his name - Nero is infamous for claiming gold medals for himself in the Olympics, singing while Rome burned and torching Christians to transfer the blame, not to mention having his mother murdered. St Peter was one of those who died in Rome under Nero, yet here is a letter bearing his name which calls for respect for the emperor. How does this read for us or for a citizen of Burma? The principle for a Christian, Peter’s letter says, is to follow Jesus’ example - never to counter evil with further wrong but to face up to injustice with continuing respect. Heaven help us! David Harmsworth
Daily Scripture:In my prosperity I said, “I shall never be moved. You, Lord, of your goodness, have made my hill so strong”…… Then you hid your face from me and I was utterly dismayed. (Psalm 30:6 & 7)Daily Reflection:That first part of the scripture sounds really good, really positive. So why then the negativity of the second part? Security had made David, the psalmist, feel invincible. He knew his riches and power had come from God….. but…. that feeling of security had made him feel self-reliant, self-secure; independent of God. David’s communication with God diminished; and then he felt God was no longer with him. We can learn from David: even when things are going well in our lives, we should still look to God. He is always where our true security in life is.Prayer: Lord, you hide your face when we trust in ourselves; strip us of false security and re-clothe us in your praise. That we may know you as the one who raises us from death. Amen. Revd David
