Daily Scripture'Those who sow in tears shall reap with songs of joy.' (Psalm 126:6)Daily ReflectionWeeping and laughter, sorrowing and rejoicing, the whole span of human emotion in one short sentence. We can be filled with joy in an instant and weep the next moment, or vice versa. When we are gripped by grief this is a common experience. Our emotions become a rollercoaster, where we have little or no control and just have to try and ride the wave as it takes us. But there is a direction to our experience, even if we cannot feel it. We are moving from pitch black to a lesser darkness, from sadness towards a tacit acceptance. And yes, towards joy. The Psalmist reassures us that this is so. Hearing these words holds out the hope that joy is possible, for someone, and perhaps even for us.Ylva Blid-Mackenzie
Daily Scripture:'Help us to proclaim the good news of your love, that all who hear it may be drawn to you' (From the Collect, the special prayer for this week)Daily Reflection:There’s a famous quote, often attributed to St Francis of Assisi: ‘Preach the Gospel at all times. Use words only when necessary’. Actions speak louder than words, and if the actions don’t match the words we have no reason to believe or trust the speaker. Our actions matter. By acting out our faith in showing love and care for others we bear witness to the ‘good news’ of God’s love. But words are needed too. The good news is to be heard, shared, not just implied or obliquely hinted at.‘Always be prepared to give an answer to anyone who asks you the reason for the hope that is in you. But do this with gentleness and respect’ (1 Peter 3:15)Revd Rosemary
Weekly news and services for the Benefice of Benenden & Sandhurst, Kent.Sunday Services: Sunday 6th September8 am Holy Communion at St Nicholas, Sandhurst 10am Holy Communion St George's, Benenden
Daily Scripture‘I lift up my eyes to the hills,From where is my help to come?My help comes from the Lord,The maker of heaven and earth.’ (Psalm 121 1-2) Daily Reflection:When was the last time you felt in awe of something? - standing at the top of a mountain or by the crashing waves of the sea? Or maybe the first time you held a new born baby. In a world that increasingly relies on technology, it can be difficult to unplug enough to experience this powerful emotion. Scientists have found that experiencing awe is good for you, good for the soul, body and mind - and the effects last for quite a while after the initial experience. Awe gives you a sense of something much larger than yourself, without diminishing your own existence - and so it is with the Lord , the most awe inspiring creator of our amazing universe, who loves us and lifts us up with His unfailing love.Lyn Hayes, ALM
