‘Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. Go and learn what this means, “I desire mercy, not sacrifice.” For I have come to call not the righteous but sinners.’ Matthew 9 : 12 - 13

Readings this week Hosea 5 : 15 – 6 : 6; Romans 4 : 13 - end; Matthew 9 : 9 – 13, 18 – 26

Thought for this week

In our Gospel reading Jesus brings healing at many different levels. There is the healing of forgiveness for our sins. Our greatest need. The healing which brings us restoration and wholeness. New life and a new beginning. The healing Jesus gave His life for.

Then there is the healing given to those who are excluded. The ones trampled on by society and systems. The ones unvalued, displaced.

Then physical healing of illnesses, but alongside this emotional healing of trauma, despair, even grief.

Then further the healing of loneliness, isolation, rejection. Jesus heals by bringing inclusion, welcome, embrace.

So much healing in so many different ways, often together.

We all need healing, in different ways. The miracle is Jesus meets us with His healing and peace, not always in the ways we want or expect, but always in powerful ways and in His timing.

What do you want to ask Jesus for today? For yourself, or for another? The Bible shows us how Jesus always hears, and will answer. 

Rev Paul

Prayer - from Catherine’s prayers in last week’s St Ed's service:

A Petition

Be Thou a smooth way before me,

Be Thou a guiding star above me,

Be Thou a keen eye behind me,

This day, this night, for ever.

I am weary, and I am forlorn,

Lead Thou me to the land of the angels;

Methinks it were time I went for a space

To the court of Christ

to the peace of the heavens.

If only Thou, O God of my life,

Be at peace with me, be my support,

Be to me as a star,

be to me as a helm,

From my lying down in peace to my rising anew.

From : Celtic Blessings by Laurence Wareing

We give thanks for…..

For the new members of our PCC

For Deidre becoming our Parish Safeguarding Officer