Scripture & Reflection: Sunday 25th January - The Third Sunday of Epiphany - & for the week ahead:   
  
Scripture:  

Now I appeal to you, brothers and sisters, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you should be in agreement and that there should be no divisions among you, but that you should be united in the same mind and the same purpose. (1 Corinthians 1:10)

Reflection:   

“Why can’t you just all get along?”. I feel the initial reaction to this Bible verse was that it’s easier said than done, even at the time it was written, let alone for us today. We don’t have to look far to see divisions; local and global politics, different church denominations, the same church, even discussions about how charitable groups should spend their money. The challenge is a tough one; to come together and believe the same thing. But let’s think about where this does work. “Faster, Higher, Stronger – Together” is the Olympic motto. “United by Music” is the Eurovision motto. In these competitions, contestants are reminded of their common cause, even within the competition. But our lives aren’t a competition, meaning that we can take the time to share ideas, have challenging debates, and really listen to other people. By doing this, we stand a much better chance of being united.

Victoria Bray