‘Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God.
‘Blessed are you who are hungry now, for you will be filled.
‘Blessed are you who weep now, for you will laugh.  Luke 6 : 20 – 21

Reading for this week : Luke 6 : 20 – 31

Thought for the week

Today is our shoebox Sunday. It is inspiring to be able to put the shoeboxes together, and know they will be put into people’s hands whose lives are so much harder than our own, who are searching for hope.

In many ways the contents of the shoebox underlines how all our lives are founded on basic, simple things. Toothbrushes and soap, items to help us stay clean and warm. Personal items we can call our own, and give us dignity.

It also reminds us how Jesus has brought the Kingdom to every man, woman and child, through ways that are essential for every human being. Joy, hope. Peace. Kindness. Knowing welcome and acceptance. Love.

These are the building blocks of the Kingdom that Jesus has won for us through the Cross and by His Resurrection presence in our lives.

The Kingdom that enables the Father’s love to flow into our hearts and through our lives. The Kingdom growing in the everyday. Amongst strangers who become friends. All those who discover the Lord’s hope and love, the amazing invitation and welcome in Jesus. 

Rev Paul

Prayers for this week

Lord, the eyes of all look to You in hope;

and You give them what they need.

You open Your hand and satisfy the hunger and thirst of every living thing.

We, too, turn to You again, longing to be filled—

to eat of the Bread of Life,

to drink from Your life-giving streams,

to taste Your goodness and live.

May the time we spend together in Your presence nourish our hearts and minds;

may it strengthen our relationship with You,

and renew our commitment to live in this world as Your faithful disciples.

For You alone are God, the Source and Sustainer of life.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

~ Christine Longhurst, re:Worship