Scripture:‘Jesus said ‘But woe to you who are rich, for you have received your consolation. Woe to you who are full now, for you will be hungry. Woe to you who are laughing now, for you will mourn and weep.’ (Luke 6.24-5)

Reflection: In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus famously blessed the poor, those who were hungry and those who were weeping. He may have surprised his disciples, but he certainly made clear his priorities, his love and concern for those in trouble. But he also went on to the stark contrast, the emptiness which lies ahead for those who live only for themselves.This week’s Collect prays: Almighty God, who alone can bring order to the unruly wills and passions of sinful humanity: give your people grace so to love what you command and to desire what you promise, that, among the many changes of this world, our hearts may surely there be fixed where true joys are to be found.

David Harmsworth