When they came to Jesus, they found the man from whom the demons had gone out, sitting at Jesus’ feet, dressed and in his right mind; and they were afraid.   Luke 8 : 35

Readings this week  Isaiah 65 : 1 - 9; Galatians 3 : 23 - end; Luke 8 : 26 - 39

Thought for this week

It is easy to despair about the state of our world, the wars, famines and forced migration, especially in the Middle East.

Jesus was born into a community that was under the occupation of another nation whose armies had irresistible power to dominate and rule.

Our Gospel reading shows us a Jesus who was concerned with individuals, not armies, or at least not human aggressors and is very dramatic. It focusses on some of the fallout from the spiritual warfare that continues to this day in the lives of many troubled people. Jesus’ attention focusses on one person who he heals in an amazing way.

Jesus is still concerned with those who are in spiritual turmoil and enduring mental struggles. Pray for them to find the same peace, hope and a transformed future that Luke describes.

Granville

Prayer for this week

O God, the strength of all those who put their trust in you, mercifully accept our prayers and, because through the weakness of our mortal nature we can do no good thing without you, grant us the help of your grace, that in the keeping of your commandments we may please you both in will and deed; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, who is alive and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen

God of truth, help us to keep your law of love and to walk in ways of wisdom, that we may find true life in Jesus Christ your Son. Amen

Our Prayers

For those preparing for their Ordination

For all those caught in conflict situations

For each of us in our discipleship of Jesus