Epworth & Belton Group of Churches

Revd Paul’s Refection for June 2025 - Walking Gently in a Noisy World

It feels, doesn’t it, as though the world has grown louder, sharper, and more divided. Every headline, every conversation seems to draw new lines between people. Opinions are shouted, differences magnified, and it’s all too easy to feel caught in the crossfire.

As Christians, how do we navigate these confusing, divisive times? How do we stay true to our faith while remaining kind, calm, and compassionate?

I’m reminded of an old story about a little candle in a darkened room. The room was filled with arguing voices, each one insisting on being the brightest, loudest light. The candle, though small and flickering, quietly lit a corner where a weary traveller found warmth and rest. In the end, it wasn’t the loudest light that brought comfort — but the steady, gentle one.

Jesus calls us to be that steady light. “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God”(Matthew 5:9, NRSV).

Not the loudest, not the angriest, not those with the sharpest response — but peacemakers.

In these days, that might look like listening carefully before we speak. Being kind, even when we disagree. Holding fast to biblical truths while practising empathy and care. Walking gently on this earth, recognising that every person we meet carries unseen burdens.

It’s also about protecting the peace within our own hearts. The constant stream of unsettling news can leave us anxious, angry, and weary. While it’s important to stay informed, we don’t need to absorb every distressing headline. It’s perfectly faithful — and healthy — to set boundaries around what we read, watch, and dwell upon.

Perhaps that means turning off the news after a certain time in the evening, stepping away from social media when it becomes overwhelming, or choosing to read Scripture before scrolling through headlines in the morning. The Psalms remind us, “Be still, and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10, NRSV) — and sometimes, we need to intentionally make space for that stillness.

We might pause before a difficult conversation, praying, “Lord, help me to love as You love.” Or offer a word of encouragement to someone overwhelmed by the world’s noise. Visit a lonely neighbour or gently advocate for those without a voice.

Jesus Himself walked in turbulent times — amid injustice, poverty, and division. Yet His way was one of grace, truth, and quiet strength. He didn’t ignore the struggles of His day, but neither did He join in the clamour. He offered another way.

And so can we.

In this noisy, complicated world, may we be those steady, quiet lights. Holding to our faith, practising empathy, protecting our hearts, and living out Christ’s peace. For in doing so, we reflect the heart of God to a world in desperate need of it.

A Prayer for Peaceful Hearts in a Divided World

Gracious God,

In a world filled with noise, division, and unrest,

teach us to walk gently, speak kindly, and love deeply.

Help us to hold firm to Your truth

while practising empathy and compassion for others.

Guard our hearts from becoming hardened or overwhelmed.

Help us to step away from the noise when we need to,

to find rest in You, and to be still in Your presence.

When we are tempted to respond in anger,

fill us with Your peace.

When we feel anxious about the struggles of our times,

remind us that You are still God, and still good.

May our lives be small lights of hope,

steady and faithful, reflecting Your love

in every word we speak and every step we take.

Through Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace.

Amen.

With every blessing this June.

Revd Paul

The Revd Paul Wilson

Rector of the Epworth Group of Churches

Priest-in-Charge of the Belton Group of Churches

Assistant Curate of the Crowle Group of Churches and the Haxey and Owston Ferry Plurality

Rural Dean of the Isle of Axholme Deanery