My eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the sight of all nations: a light for revelation to the Gentiles,
and the glory of your people Israel  Luke 2 : 30 – 32

Readings this week Malachi 3 : 1 - 5; Hebrews 2 : 14 - end; Luke 2 : 22 - 40

Thought for this week

It is always a special moment for new parents to present their new – born. For each of us, whoever we are, a relative, a friend, or a complete stranger, it is a privilege to meet a new born child for the first time, a whole new person, an identity to be revealed, a new life full of possibilities.

This moment of encounter of Jesus being brought into the Temple is captured for us by the Gospel writer.

A moment of sensitivity, pride, maybe even trepidation for Mary and Joseph.

Simeon has been brought by the Holy Spirit to be present. Anna is present through her faithfulness and life of prayer. Both encounter Jesus in a moment of revelation, of patience rewarded, of real joy.

So much of our time is filled each day with the details of living, the lists and tasks that so easily preoccupy us.

We each need the Holy Spirit to guide us into times of holy encounter, of patience, of being in the right time, that are miracles in our lives.

Jesus comes to each of us day by day. May we be open to these moments of encounter, to be filled with awe, and be changed. 

Rev Paul

Prayer for this week - A blessing

The world is now too dangerous and too beautiful for anything but love

May your eyes be so blessed you see God in everyone.

Your ears, so you hear the cry of the poor.

May your hands be so blessed that everything you touch is a sacrament.

Your lips, so you speak nothing but the truth with love.

May your feet be so blessed you run to those who need you.

And may your heart be so opened, so set on fire, that your love, Your love, changes everything.

From the Black Rock Prayer Book

People to pray for

For new parents

For those waiting for hope

For all our congregations, that our worship and faith may deepen