You have given your commandments as a sure path for us, and your decrees for our richest delight. You have given your Covenant so that we may have life in its fullness, and the urgings of your Spirit for our attentive listening to your word.   Psalm 119 : 9 – 16

Readings this week Psalm 65; Joel 2 : 23 – end; Luke 18 : 9 - 14

Some thoughts for this week

The ceiling of the Sistine Chapel is a breathtaking reminder of the majesty and power of the Lord over and above our frail human selves. Yet at the centre of Michaelangelo’s vision rests the father reaching out to bring life to Adam, just as in His compassion He brings His healing, hope, forgiveness and strength to everyone who will receive from Him.

It was moving to see King Charles and Pope Leo coming together to pray. Both with considerable influence, yet both coming humbly in the Chapel’s surroundings. A reminder they are just human. Completely dependent as we all are of the Lord’s grace in our lives, His mercy and His love.

In our Gospel reading Jesus presents us with two characters. One is confident of his standing with God. That he has fulfilled all the statutory requirements. The other penitent. Knowing that he brings nothing of his own in asking for the Lord’s forgiveness and help.

Scripture is a gift and a blessing where the Lord speaks into each of our lives day by day. In every situation we hear and read of the Lord’s kindness and love, and are challenged when that is most needed. As we reflect on God’s word today, let us give thanks for His word, and for Jesus His Living Word. 

Rev Paul

Prayer for this week

Blessed Lord, who caused all holy Scriptures to be written for our learning: help us so to hear them, to read, mark, learn and inwardly digest them that, through patience, and the comfort of your holy word, we may embrace and for ever hold fast the hope of everlasting life, which you have given us in our Saviour Jesus Christ, who is alive and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen

Merciful God, teach us to be faithful in change and uncertainty, that trusting in your word and obeying your will we may enter the unfailing joy of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen

We praise the Lord and give thanks for…

For the Bibles we have, and those we are able to give to others

For all those who study, preach, translate, distribute, and communicate the truth of the Bible