Jesus said, ‘I came to bring fire to the earth, and how I wish it were already kindled!   Luke 12 : 49

Readings this week Jeremiah 23 : 23 - 29; Hebrews 11 : 29 – 12 : 2; Luke 12 : 49 - 56

Thought for this week

The wildfires across Southern Europe this year have been more prolific than ever. They are unpredictable, difficult to control, they spread rapidly, and cause fear and panic especially for those who are not used to them. For many this will be an enduring image of summer. Yet Jesus speaks of bringing fire to the earth. It is the image of something that spreads without limits. Of a force that is powerful, unstoppable. Jesus’ meaning is completely different to the destructive pictures we are seeing.

Jesus’ Kingdom is unstoppable. It brings truth, breaks down walls, drives through greed or deceit, cannot be resisted by merely human powers or constructions. Jesus speaks about bringing fire and division. In other words turning the human world upside down. Bringing purity and hope in place of darkness and despair. Bringing freedom.

These are hard words from Jesus. Yet this is the Lord’s love confronting the sin of our world. This is Jesus confronting the turmoil and pain of our world today, which we are so acutely aware of in our news. This is Jesus’ love that does not hold back, but who even took the fire upon Himself on the cross, so we might each have the offer of forgiveness. Jesus who embraced death, so that we might have new life in Him. 

Rev Paul

Prayers for this week

Almighty God, who sent your Holy Spirit to be the life and light of your Church: open our hearts to the riches of your grace, that we may bring forth the fruit of the Spirit in love and joy and peace; 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

Gracious Father, revive your Church in our day, and make her holy, strong and faithful, for your glory’s sake in Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen

People to pray for

For the children and school staff on holiday, for rest and safety for them

For those who are housebound, or in Care Homes

For our hospital undergoing staff reviews, and all those affected