‘So I say to you, Ask, and it will be given to you; search, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened for you.
For everyone who asks receives, and everyone who searches finds, and for everyone who knocks, the door will be opened. Luke 11 : 9 – 10
Readings this week Genesis 18 : 20 - 32; Colossians 2 : 6 - 15; Luke 11 : 1 - 13
Thought for this week
In our Gospel reading the disciples come to Jesus asking, ‘Teach us to pray’. These are men (and women and children) who have been praying since childhood in their family gatherings, in the synagogues and temple, even each day. Now they ask Jesus to teach them to pray. In other words in the life – changing, sincere, open and honest way He prays to the Father.
It has been the end of term this week. Many young people are now planning their summer, thinking about the next stage of life, moving classes or even schools, or moving to higher education or into employment. So many changes, and so many journeys.
Jesus tells a parable of a friend on a journey who comes at midnight, asking for food. Jesus is speaking about prayer. Turning to the Father in prayer for the grace and mercy, love and strength we each need day. Persisting in prayer and being bold in prayer to ask, “knock and the door will be opened to you”.
We are each on our journey in life. Are we persistent in our prayers? Are we bold in asking? Do we expect the Lord to answer? Do we look for the answers? Jesus reassures us and challenges us. Prayer is such a privilege. With faith in Jesus it is such a gift in all life brings us.
Rev Paul
Prayer for this week
Merciful God, you have prepared for those who love you such good things as pass our understanding: pour into our hearts such love toward you that we, loving you in all things and above all things, may obtain your promises, which exceed all that we can desire; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord,
Creator God, you made us all in your image: may we discern you in all that we see, and serve you in all that we do; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen
People to pray for
For the 12,000 youngsters at Newday at the Showground this week. A Christian gathering of teaching and worship. We pray for the work of the Holy Spirit and give thanks for this ministry
For those we know whose lives are hard or are grieving at this time