From that time on Jesus began to explain to his disciples that he must go to Jerusalem and suffer many things at the hands of the elders, the chief priests and the teachers of the law, and that he must be killed and on the third day be raised to life.     Matthew 16 : 21

Readings this week :

Matthew 16 : 21 – 28 ,  Romans 12 : 9 - 21 ,  Jeremiah 15 : 15 - 21

Thought for the week :

Jesus meets us this week with a challenge and an invitation. He has taken the way of sacrifice for our forgiveness and healing. He calls us to believe, to follow, to give our lives for the healing and hope He has won for the world. The following words may help us to reflect on this for ourselves :

Abandon the illusion you're a self-contained individual. Be a part of this wounded world, and find yourself with Christ.

Set aside your own desires, give yourself fully for others; be the hands and heart of Jesus.

 Renounce self-protection,accept your brokenness, and reach out for love.

Let go of your own plans. Join in the healing of the world. You will not be alone.

Follow your soul, not your ego. Follow it right into people's suffering. Follow it right into the heart of God.

Pour yourself out; let the world pour in; then you are one with the Beloved.

written by Steve Garnaas-Holmes and posted on Unfolding Light. https://www.unfoldinglight.net/

Prayers for this week

Almighty God,
who called your Church to bear witness that you were in Christ reconciling the world to yourself:
help us to proclaim the good news of your love,
that all who hear it may be drawn to you;
through him who was lifted up on the cross,
and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.

Almighty God, you search us and know us:

may we rely on you in strength and rest on you in weakness,

now and in all our days; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen

People to pray for :

The church in Pakistan

For all church leaders courage in the Gospel

For the schools reopening this week