Scripture & Reflection: Sunday 20th March and for the Week ahead:Scripture:God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it. (2 Cor 10.13) Reflection:The gentle verse above is actually part of two readings today concerned with God's judgement! There are two ways of understanding the biblical word 'judgement' - one is that of 'retribution', and the other is of 'refinement'. Retribution speaks of punishment and vengeance; refinement speaks of love - of purifying and making more beautiful. The way you understand the word 'judgement', goes a long way to show how you understand God. Read from the beginning of Chapter 10, and then read the verse above again - do you see a vengeful God, or a loving God? God's love is shown in his judgement, for he longs for us to be free of the things that weigh us down. Even though we may choose what is wrong, God is faithful and will even then provide a way out. Our 'judge' becomes our 'redeemer'. Vicki Young
Scripture & Reflection: Sunday 13th March and for the Week ahead: ScriptureBlessed be the Lord, for he has wondrously shown his steadfast love to me when I was beset as a city under siege. I had said in my alarm, ‘I am driven far from your sight.’ But you heard my supplications when I cried out to you for help. Love the Lord, all you his saints. The Lord preserves the faithful, but abundantly repays the one who acts haughtily. Be strong, and let your heart take courage, all you who wait for the Lord. (Psalm 31.21-14) Reflection Psalm 31 is a prayer that has been taken to heart by Ukrainians ‘under siege’. The courage that is prayed for in the psalm they are showing in buckets - what an encouragement to us all when faced with times in which we may feel ‘driven far from the sight’ of a protective, loving God. You can join with Ukrainians as they read the whole Psalm at biblesociety.org.uk David Harmsworth
