Daily Scripture:‘Do not repay anyone evil for evil...If it is possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. Do not take revenge...Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good’. (Romans 12.17-21)Daily Reflection:Whether in a family, in a local feud or between international communities, once revenge takes hold it becomes unstoppable, as aggression leads to reprisals, and to endless tit for tat. The chain can only be broken if those who have been wronged refuse to allow the evil actions of others to determine their response. We must not respond to hatred with more hatred, or to violence with more violence. We must never condone evil, and as Paul realistically accepts, we cannot always avoid conflict; but as Christians we are called to strive always for peace and reconciliation, rather than revenge. Jesus himself, who ‘did not retaliate when he was insulted, nor threaten revenge when he suffered, but entrusted himself to the one who judges justly’ is our model and our example.Revd Rosemary
Weekly news and services for the Benefice of Benenden & Sandhurst, Kent.Sunday Services: Sunday 30th August8 am Holy Communion at St Nicholas, Sandhurst 10am Holy Communion St George's, Benenden
Daily Scripture:‘Now those who were scattered went from place to place, proclaiming the word’ (Acts 8 v 4)Daily Reflection:In our reading “those who were scattered” were not named - we do not know who they were individually, but they went out proclaiming the word, not knowing if their words would have any influence as they moved from place to place. We are not always aware of the time or place of the many influences that have shaped our lives, it is sometimes only after the event that we are able to discern this influence, if at all. And those who proclaim the word may not be aware themselves of the impact they may have had - a small word of encouragement, a kind gesture or act of kindness - to the giver it may be insignificant, but to the receiver it could change the way that they view their day or their life!!Lyn Hayes, ALM
Daily Scripture‘As for me, O Lord, I will cry to you; early in the morning my prayer shall come before you.Lord, why have you rejected my soul? Why have you hidden your face from me?’ (Psalm 88:15&16)Daily ReflectionOnce more the Psalmist is being completely open and honest with God. This time though it is not abounding joy that he expresses to God, but that he has hit rock bottom, and even feels rejected by God. (Which does not happen…. but that’s how he feels.) We do not always have to put on a positive and cheerful face – especially with God; it is a good thing to tell God exactly how we are feeling. And yet, despite how he is feeling about life and even about God, the psalmist still prays to God. If you are not in the habit, start it today – bring all your feelings to God in prayer – “Cry out to God”. Sharing how we truly feel is a first step to healing.Revd David
