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Love your enemies
Jesus’ teaching here is hard but unequivocal - love your enemies (Luke 6.27 & 35)
Context
We live in troubling times. As I write (on Tuesday) the UK seems to be committing to sending troops to Ukraine should a peace settlement be reached. The US President and Netanyahu are still talking about forcible resettlement of more than 2 million Palestinians from Gaza. Churches and others are taking legal action against some of the policies of the Trump administration. And finally, we see the extraordinary news that the sick Pope has written to American bishops to condemn the theology expressed by the Roman Catholic US Vice President citing, in particular, the story we call the Good Samaritan which appears in Luke 10 just a few chapters beyond today’s lectionary gospel.
Ideas for sermons or interactive talks
This gospel passage follows Luke’s very distinct (and less spiritual than Matthew’s) version of the Beatitudes which was last Sunday’s lectionary gospel (although Roots focussed on the psalm). Love your enemies appears twice in the passage (vv27 and 35). But that is far from being the only extraordinary teaching here:
- Give your shirt to someone who takes your coat (v29).
- Bless those who curse you (v28).
- Expect no credit for loving those who love us or doing good to those who do good to us for ‘even sinners do the same’ (v33).
- Above all expect nothing in return for loving your enemies (v35).
Living up to such extraordinary teaching is an enormous challenge. Few of us do live up to that challenge but even if we often fail we surely should aspire to do so.
How would it be if we lived up to the challenge to love our enemies locally, let alone nationally and internationally? Often we are encouraged to think of the poor and the sick as ‘not like us’, as ‘other’. Those who flee their homes and take risky crossings in flimsy boats are seen as ‘problems’ or even as enemies to our way of life. In his letter to the US bishops the Pope calls on ‘all men and women of good will, not to give in to narratives that discriminate against and cause unnecessary suffering to our migrant and refugee brothers and sisters’.
This gospel passage does not mean that we will never disagree, but surely it does mean that we should take great care over how we disagree. It means that we should not use disagreement as a reason to diminish the value of another person. This is hard teaching to put into practice, especially with ideas and beliefs which are very close to our hearts. How can we build communities of forgiveness and peace - communities where we seek to resolve disputes and where we fight graciously without destroying each other?
Questions for discussion
In his letter to the US bishops the Pope writes of ‘the dignified treatment that all people deserve, especially the poorest and most marginalized’. What implications does that have for the policies followed by our own government?
We are called in today’s lectionary gospel to go the extra mile in forgiving, in not judging and in not asking people to ‘pay for’ what we may think they have done. Justice is important but sometimes, what we think of as a quest for justice, may actually be a search for revenge - something infinitely less life affirming, although less costly.
- If the gospel offers us a challenge to sacrificial love, what does this mean for us in an unequal world?
- Does love in its true sense offer us ways of policy making so that our welfare system better supports the poor, the sick and those with disabilities?
- Does love offer us a guide to advocating for the people forced to choose between heating and eating as the cost of living crisis bites?
- If love is not our guide at the moment, should it be?
Dudley Coates is a local preacher in the Salisbury Methodist Circuit and a former Vice President of the Methodist Conference.
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Monday (17 February) was Random Acts of Kindness Day, when people are encouraged to perform simple acts of kindness to spread love to those we know, and perhaps even to those we don’t. There are lots of stories of things people got up to, spreading love and kindness to friends, family, teachers and even strangers. What random acts of kindness have you been the recipient of? What random acts of kindness have you performed for others?
Showing love in these ways for people we care about isn’t too difficult and can be fun – even acts of kindness for those we don’t know can be rewarding. But what if we were asked to show such love and kindness for those we don’t like?
At this week’s BAFTA Film Awards, Wicked took the awards for Costume Design and Production Design. Wicked tells the story of the unlikely friendship and fallouts of Glinda and Elphaba. In one scene, Glinda gives Elphaba a black pointed hat to wear to the ball, which causes her to be made fun of by the others when she wears it. She is humiliated and totally isolated. It creates a moment of drama when each character must decide how to react to the one who has wronged them, and the one they have wronged. Have you ever felt hurt or let down by someone? How did you react?
Glinda reacts by coming alongside Elphaba and dancing with her, an act of love amidst a difficult relationship. In this week’s passage from Luke 6:27-38, Jesus speaks about showing love to those we consider our enemies. What might that look like?
Jesus points out that loving those we care about and who care about us is not too difficult (verse 32) but calls on us to go further and love those we do not like. This doesn’t mean letting people walk all over us, and relies on us being in a relationship of safety with that person. It is a challenge to us to overcome any bad feeling between ourselves and others and to show love, allowing that to transform our relationship with that person.
Random Acts of Kindness Day is part of ‘RAK Week’ – what action could you take this week to show love or kindness to someone you don’t usually get on with?
Darren Philip is National Stewardship Consultant with the Church of Scotland where he writes resources for intergenerational ministry.
Views expressed are the authors' own. Hypertext links to other websites are for the convenience of users only and do not constitute any endorsement or authorisation by Roots for Churches Ltd.
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The week in focus for week beginning Sunday 16 February 2025
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What’s wrong?
“… the wicked will not stand in the judgement, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous;” (Psalm 1:5)
Context
- Pete Wilkinson, the co-founder and first director of Greenpeace UK, died on 21 January this year, aged 78. He was 24 when he was given a book that opened his eyes to the risks to the environment that were posed by human activity. He joined Friends of the Earth but, coming from a working-class background, he found FotE to be ‘too middle-class’. Greenpeace gave him the opportunity to use his creativity to bring important issues to the attention of the public. The stunts for which Greenpeace became famous often led to accusations of law-breaking. However, it has often been the case that Greenpeace have won in legal actions against companies and HM Government.
- A film about the life of Dietrich Bonhoeffer is to be released in the UK next month. The film has caused some controversy and been accused of promoting right-wing causes. Yet there are uncanny similarities between the now famous sermon delivered by the Right Rev Mariann Edgar Budde at the National Prayer Service at Washington National Cathedral on 21 January 2025 and a scene in the film. In front of a congregation with senior Nazis in the front pews, Martin Niemöller preached that Jesus and not Adolf Hitler is Lord.
- Last weekend’s FA Cup games threw up a couple of refereeing controversies. Unusually these had nothing to do with VAR decisions as it is not used in the 4th round of this tournament. The games involved were Manchester United’s against Leicester City and Birmingham City versus Newcastle United. Having said VAR was not involved, it was there in the shadows as Manchester United’s winning goal was clearly offside, but was allowed to stand. Newcastle’s opening goal may or may not have crossed the line but, without Goal Line Technology (GLT), no one could be sure and the referee erred on the side of the Newcastle forward.
Reflection
Pete Wilkinson sailed close to the wind to achieve his aim of bringing climate justice to the widest possible audience. To make a comparison between Wilkinson and Dietrich Bonhoeffer may seem crass and, in one respect, they differ. Pete Wilkinson never seemed to be troubled by a sense that he was in any way wrong in what he did to achieve his ends. In contrast, it is suggested Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s conscience was wracked by the decisions he made that led to his eventual execution. Were either sinners or wicked?
The London Institute for Contemporary Christianity (LICC) offer a course about the 6Ms - a framework to help us see how God is already working through us. In addition, a series of banners on the home page asks questions relating to how Jesus would live our lives. One of these asked ”How would Jesus play football?” How indeed. Would Jesus have said, “Actually I think I was a little bit offside” or “I’m not really sure the ball crossed the line. Maybe we should give the opposition the benefit of the doubt.”
Questions
- What happens when those whose job it is to adjudicate the Law are wrong? What happens when those who rule us are tyrannical – like Adolf Hitler and others we might think of? Does Romans 13:1-3 apply in such cases?
- Did Dietrich Bonhoeffer go too far?
- How far would you go ‘for the sake of the planet’ or to resist a tyrannical ruler?
Simon Carver is the Free Church Ecumenical Chaplain at St Albans Cathedral and a recently retired Baptist Minister living in Watford. He takes a particular interest in film, sport and politics.
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Growing deep roots
We live in what often seems like such an instant, fast-paced society:
- We can order something on Amazon today and it can arrive tomorrow; potentially even later today if we pay an extra £1.99.
- Someone famous can announce something on social media and, all of a sudden, it’s headline news.
- Or, as we’ve seen in a school in Sheffield recently, someone can get into a fight which can very quickly get out of hand, and suddenly someone has lost their life.
How is it even possible to grow deep roots in such a fast-paced, online-driven world when it appears that everything is stopping us from growing deep roots?
I’d like to suggest that we can only grow roots by intentionally doing the right things over a long period of time such as 'meditating on his law day and night' as it says in Psalm 1. Or, as Eugene Peterson called it in the title of one of his best-loved books, A long obedience in the same direction.
It’s easy to forget that Jesus spent 30 – yes, thirty years – of growing deep roots before we start to read of his ministry in scripture. His disciples spent 3 years physically following him day in, day out – and even then, they didn’t fully get it. Do we ever fully get it?
All we’ve got is today. Yesterday has gone, tomorrow is yet to come. What can you intentionally do today to grow your roots a couple of millimeters deeper?
- Listen to a worship song on YouTube before checking your Insta feed when you wake up?
- Listen to a Christian radio station whilst you’re revising over half-term rather than a YouTube play list?
Whatever you do, know that God sees you and sees your intentions.
Jonathan Buckley, Youth Development Worker at YMCA Rotherham and Redevelopment Manager at St Paul’s Wordsworth Avenue, Sheffield
Views expressed are the authors' own. Hypertext links to other websites are for the convenience of users only and do not constitute any endorsement or authorisation by Roots for Churches Ltd.
The week in focus is also available via facebook and Instagram.
Roots publishes weekly lectionary-based worship and learning resources online and in two magazines. FIND OUT MORE.
The week in focus for week beginning Sunday 9 February 2025
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Fearless or a bully?
When can being fearless in interaction with others be recommended (Luke 5:10)?
Context
Ideas for sermons or interactive talks
Is Christian mission outreach manipulative? Whatever is true of actual fish, people choose to engage and to come into the ‘net’, whether via a vast evangelical mission or a quiet church hall bible study. Mind you, there is no room for diplomatic tweaking of Jesus’ message. He later tells the disciples what to do about those unwilling to engage. Call them out! Shake the dust of their town off your feet! (Luke 9:5). Is a degree of fierce certainty therefore OK in Christian mission?
I’ve always thought of Christ’s disciples as ‘boldly going’ (showing my age by riffing on a phrase featured in certain long-running film/TV series), guided by that inner light ignited in Peter when he was called. But does this light justify a laser-focus on the target with never a nod to other people’s feelings or a hesitation over the content of the message? I have friends, even relatives, where I would tread very warily when trying to inch them toward my own very different views. Vehemence can damage a relationship rather than progressing it. Christ himself, and the disciples after him, were fearless of putting themselves in peril for a good cause. But they didn’t, so far as I recall, ever endanger or hurt others. Remember the case of Paul after the earthquake, refusing to escape as that would imperil his gaoler (Acts 16:25)! Perhaps being ‘other-focused’ is as important as being mission-focused?
Being able to be, ’shrewd as serpents’ among ‘wolves’ was another piece of advice for his disciples from Jesus (Matthew 10:16). If Trump the unpredictable might offer the way to a peace-deal in Gaza, or keep the UK or the EU out of recession, or hold back from cutting US aid then it would surely be wrong not to see what diplomatic niceties rather than confrontation might achieve. The safety and prosperity of an awful lot people in the months to come may depend on our politicians’ wiles. When then is being ‘wily’ compatible with Christian integrity?
Questions for discussion
- You’ve got an important cause, campaigning on climate change, for example. What approaches or tactics are acceptable?
- How well does your church or congregation handle internal differences of opinion over e.g. Holy Communion arrangements in a local ecumenical partnership (LEP) or attitudes to LGBTQ+ people?
Brenda Vance is a URC Elder and a retired university teacher
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Saturday nights during winter are special evenings in our household. As a family we gather together with a specially made meal, and snuggle down to watch our favourite shows. The season starts with Strictly Come Dancing and ends with The Gladiators. During that time other shows entertain us along the way including Michael McIntyre’s Big Show.
Those of you who watched the most recent show (Episode 3) will have seen a guy called Gary. His family wanted to throw him a surprise because of all his incredible fundraising efforts since his son died. Gary, thinking he was about to head to watch a darts tournament, suddenly found himself in the darts tournament playing against World Darts Champion Luke Littler! A true once-in-a-lifetime experience.
None of that could have happened if Gary hadn’t done one important thing…said yes! When asked to step in to help he had no idea what it would lead to. Our Bible passage today highlights the importance of saying yes and putting our trust in the right place. Let us open ourselves up for once-in-a-lifetime experiences by saying yes to God this week.
Lindsay Wright is a freelance writer and designer based in Lancashire www.lwcreative.co.uk
Views expressed are the authors' own. Hypertext links to other websites are for the convenience of users only and do not constitute any endorsement or authorisation by Roots for Churches Ltd.
The week in focus is also available via facebook and Instagram.
Roots publishes weekly lectionary-based worship and learning resources online and in two magazines. FIND OUT MORE.
The week in focus for week beginning Sunday 2 February 2025
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Christian use of power
All power comes from God, so we must use our power in God’s way (Luke 4.25-27).
Context
“Have mercy.” It’s rare for two short words to hit home with the force that these have in the past week. Bishop Mariann Budde’s sermon outraged President Donald Trump and infuriated his supporters, as reported not only in the international news media, but in publications as diverse as Bloomberg and Glamour. The news coverage is evenly spread across the political spectrum, but Left-leaning and Right-leaning media are diametrically opposed in their reactions: the former praising the Bishop of Washington for asking the President to reconsider his actions against vulnerable minorities, and the latter citing separation of Church and State and demanding that she apologise.
Context, of course, is all. It was not just the words “Have mercy” that enraged the political Right, but that Bishop Budde was asking this on behalf of LGBT children, immigrant workers, refugees and asylum seekers. Here, the repeated, emphatic Biblical demand that mercy be shown to the poor and the outcast, is in direct conflict with the modern notion that religion and politics should not mix.
In fact, religion and politics have always mixed: inevitably, since each concerns the way we treat each other and order our society. In Jesus’ community, the only law was religious law, and he repeatedly challenged the Pharisees responsible for its enforcement. Religion and politics have been intertwined throughout history, from Emperor Constantine, Hild(a) of Whitby, Margaret of Scotland and Thomas Becket, to Joan of Arc, John Knox, Mother Jones, Desmond Tutu and many, many others.
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As Christians, we often hear about our role as servants (the New Testament uses the Greek word douloi, ‘slaves’) of God. We learn about Christ’s ‘self-emptying’ (kenosis) in coming down from heaven to live among us. We hear of his washing the disciples’ feet, and praise the ‘Servant King’. Since the 6th century, most popes have followed Gregory the Great’s example in styling themselves ‘Servant of the Servants of God’ (Servus Servorum Dei).
By contrast, we rarely hear about the Christian use of power: the capacity to influence the thoughts, words and actions of others. From infancy onwards, we are taught obedience to the authority of parents, doctors, teachers, clergy, police officers, coaches, foremen, line managers – and there are many good reasons for this, often relating to our own and other people’s safety and wellbeing.
But the danger is that we find ourselves, as Christians, hesitant when people in authority use their power in ways that conflict with Christian teaching. Do we side with the bully or the victim? And what happens when we find ourselves in positions of power and authority? Sooner or later, some of us will become parents, doctors, teachers, police officers, coaches, foremen, managers – even (God help us!) clergy – or in other positions of greater or lesser authority. Do we become the bullies, or champion the victims? Or do we just look away?
For guidance, we must return to Jesus Christ, who exercised his own divine power and authority in very specific ways: to teach, heal and forgive, but also to confront those in authority who misused their power to exploit or exclude vulnerable people.
‘Power tends to corrupt, and absolute power corrupts absolutely,” wrote Lord Acton to Bishop Creighton in 1887. Following Christ, as Christians, we can and must find another way.
Questions for discussion
- What are the dangers of seeing ourselves only as servants?
- Who has power and authority over us? Do they use it properly?
- Whom do we have power and authority over? Do we use it properly?
- We know we should show mercy to those in distress, but how should we challenge those who cause the distress?
Robert Beard is an NHS worker and Church of England priest.
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What does love look like? Valentines Day is around the corner where love is shown by flowers, chocolates and cuddly toys. Is love always gentle and fluffy? What about when a friend is making some choices that you can see are going to bite them down the line? Is it loving to say “you’re great, I’m sure it will all be fine”? Or would real love need to say the difficult thing and help the person see where they might end up?
This week The Apprentice hits TV again. Alan Sugar is rarely known for being loving & fluffy but he argues that, by telling people when they have made a mistake, he is helping them to improve and get more out of their skills.
You might have had someone who says they love you giving you a tough time this weekend (cough, parents, cough).
The question today is, if God loves everyone, why is Jesus saying things that he knows will upset all the people in his home village (not just neighbours but aunts, uncles, cousins, friends)?
The Jewish people knew that God loved them and had chosen them centuries before and rescued them from slavery in Egypt. The truth that they were God’s chosen had caused them to miss (or ignore) the truth that God loves all his creation and intended them to be a blessing to the nations around them. They weren’t so interested in that truth and so get angry and violent when Jesus speaks it to them.
It’s worth noting that Jesus doesn’t get angry about them getting angry - but he also doesn’t change his message.
How does your love for someone affect the way that you speak truth to them? Does love ever stop you from telling them the truth?
Love can be tough sometimes.
Steve Taylor shares the job of joint-vicar of St Paul’s CofE Church, Harrow with his wife, Ali. They share their home with their youngest child, two cats and numerous fish.
Views expressed are the authors' own. Hypertext links to other websites are for the convenience of users only and do not constitute any endorsement or authorisation by Roots for Churches Ltd.
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ROOTS publishes weekly lectionary-based worship and learning resources online and in two magazines. FIND OUT MORE.
The week in focus for week beginning Sunday 26 January 2025
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Good laws for somebody?
Jesus’ inaugural public speech in Nazareth (Luke 4:14-21) stands in contrast to that of the incoming USA president.
Context
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Oh dear! I really wish there was a less obvious topic to write about this week, but in a week when our Bible passages encourage us to think about honouring the law of Moses and sharing Jesus’ good news, there is an elephant in the room which has stars and stripes tattooed all over it. All four of our given texts are full of such potential as examples of good governance and leadership:
- In Nehemiah 8:1-3,5-6,8-10 Ezra makes sure that the Law of Moses is presented to the broadest possible audience and in the most accessible space possible (even the ritually defiled can gather here in the square before the Water Gate, outside the Temple area). This is an act of remembering the Law, surrounded by respect and worship, celebration and sharing. Whilst they celebrate the Law that is returned to its central position in their society, they must ensure that no-one misses out. The traditions of the new moon festival state that they must also provide for both the foreigners and the poor (Deuteronomy 14:29; 26:12-13).
- In Psalm 19 we are told that God’s Law is good and to be celebrated. This is a celebration of God’s creation, the ushering in of a ‘golden age’. This would be a brilliant psalm to read at an inauguration ceremony, if it didn’t stick in your throat.
- In 1 Corinthians 12:12-31a, a passage so often used as an ideal model for balance and mutual support within our churches, we find words that could have been written to advise someone who is also in the process of forming a new government administration. As the supporting biblical notes elsewhere in Roots this week state, things which might have previously divided people – racial or ethnic identity, gender, ability, status – should no longer do so in this new age. God’s Spirit brings a respect and mutuality between all peoples.
- And then, in Luke 4:14-21, here is Jesus reading from the scroll of Isaiah (Isaiah 61:1-2; 58:6), his short inaugural speech in his home town and so often labelled as his Nazareth Manifesto. Whether you read this powerful statement of intent as literal or metaphor – aimed at reaching out to those who are poor, held captive, blind or oppressed – this week here are words enough to make one weep!
In the light of all the themes highlighted in this week’s bible passages we have also heard President Trump’s ‘golden age’ manifesto, which seems to speak out against: caring for the environment; gender diversity (did anyone else find it ironic to see Donald dancing to the song ‘YMCA’?); working with or alongside other nations; the previous administration’s overspending, whilst announcing planned trips to the moon! And that’s before you even get onto revoking legal decisions about the 6 January 2021 Capitol riots and the various cases working their way through the the law courts about senior members of his new government.
In this season of Epiphany we remember the journey of the wise magi from the east to the west, to Bethlehem. Epiphany is a season which celebrates inclusivity – from east to west, north to south and everywhere in between. Jesus’ opening statement in Luke 4:18-19 and his call for liberation for all people reminds us of the message of inclusivity, which will later be backed up by his teachings about God’s love as his ministry and mission grow throughout the gospel. With one eye on the past (Isaiah) Jesus sets out his stall for God’s future hopes for his people. Jesus might have upset the applecart of his day, especially in Nazareth, but sadly some of the fruits of his manifesto would seem to be the very ones thrown down and trampled on the floor of the Capitol building on Monday. How do we feel called to share Jesus' message with all those who will be struggling or hurt after this past week?
Questions for discussion
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Looking back over manifesto-like statements made on the world political stage this past week, in the light of the gospel passage from Luke 4:14-21, which statements make you wince and why?
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What stories of good news or liberation have you come across this week which make you want to proclaim that God is good?
Tim Lowe is a minister of the United Reformed Church, serving in the Leeds URC Partnership, and celebrates diversity and inclusivity within our churches.
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A list of promises
You’d need to have spent the week hiding under a rock to avoid bumping into news connected to Donald J Trump:
All in all, it’s been a week flooded with Trump.
But perhaps what is most striking about all of the noise around the presidency is the list of things Trump is going to do - all outlined in the executive orders he signed in front of thousands of his supporters in a massive sports stadium. His promise list if you like. With his sharpie signature scrawled onto documents in leather folders, Trump made some big changes for different people in the US. He immediately cancelled different programmes run by the previous president and promised some fairly serious action for people trying to get into America or those who don’t have the right paperwork. The orders also pushed back on climate change, people’s rights and even the World Health Organisation.
I guess whatever you think about all of this, Trump’s list at the start of his time in power is a very different list of promises to the one Jesus made as he started his ministry powered by the Holy Spirit. In fact, there couldn’t be much more of a contrast. The list in John 4:18-19 highlights good news for those at the margins – for the poor, the oppressed and those who have suffered through no fault of their own. The list draws on the ancient words of Isaiah and sets out a programme that will impact people who need to be drawn into society, are seen as having value and need to be cared for - not ejected or pushed away.
Two different lists of promises that impact people in very different ways.
Questions for discussion
- What does Jesus’ list mean to you?
- How can you be part of the plans Jesus has for society?
Activity
Encourage the young people to think about the way their faith impacts on how they think about other people. Invite them to write their own list of the practical things they could do to draw the marginalised in, show people they have value and care for others.
Fiona Dorman is a freelance leadership consultant and mediator.
Views expressed are the authors' own. Hypertext links to other websites are for the convenience of users only and do not constitute any endorsement or authorisation by Roots for Churches Ltd.
The week in focus is also available via facebook and Instagram.
ROOTS publishes weekly lectionary-based worship and learning resources online and in two magazines. FIND OUT MORE.
The week in focus for week beginning Sunday 19 January 2025
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The surprising generosity of God
God’s generosity surprises us but how will we respond? (John 2:1-11)
Context
Hopes are high that a ceasefire might finally be signed in the Holy Land.
Some positive news on the UK economy was released.
The Princess of Wales surprised patients at the hospital where she was treated for cancer.
Ideas for sermons or interactive talks
Jesus turns water intended for religious purification into wine which is then used for celebration and joy. In the Holy land, religious difference has been often used as an excuse for violence and aggression. People around the world have been crying out to God for peace and this week a major step looks possible for the first time in months. Sustained peace, however, will rely on hard work and perseverance on both sides. God’s grace is freely given but he always leaves room for humanity’s free will. So much is needed to rebuild Gaza and enable the injured and bereaved to recover. God’s abundance is ready and at hand but will people receive it?
Inflation and interest rates have had a huge impact on the wellbeing of so many households in the UK in recent years and the economy is always being discussed by politicians. The recent announcement that the UK economy grew by 0.1% in November will be greeted differently depending on the party a particular politician represents. The clear difference between these fine margins being argued over in government (along with conversations about whether pensions or other benefits should keep pace with inflation) contrast sharply with our gospel reading. Jesus doesn’t create enough wine to prevent embarrassment for the hosts - he creates wheelie-bin loads of the stuff. Everyone has enough and to spare and they are amazed at its quality. God’s economics are always different to ours. He gives abundantly and generously so that we grasp something more of his amazing power and love.
The Princess of Wales' visit to the Royal Marsden Hospital where she was treated for cancer was an unexpected surprise for current patients there. The princess was clearly grateful for her own treatment and care and that she is now in remission from the cancer. Having been blessed in this way, it is absolutely right that she looks to encourage and bless others who are experiencing the same disease.
We pray for ourselves and others daily, but we can be slow to thank God and slower to share the blessings with others. How has God blessed us this week? How could we be passing that on to those we will meet?
Questions for discussion
- Does the church model the same generosity we see from Jesus in the story?
- Can you think of any examples of someone who has?
- Has God ever surprised you with a better answer to a prayer than you were expecting?
- In what ways have you passed on the generosity you have received from God?
Steve Taylor shares the job of joint-vicar of St Paul’s CofE Church, Harrow with his wife, Ali. They share their home with their youngest child, two cats and numerous fish.
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I guess it’s a case of love it or hate it but Series 3 of The Traitors is well under way and the familiar format with new quirks and twists for 2025 has certainly “grabbed” many people.
They certainly seem to go all out with the production values. The Traitors' mansion is the height of luxury and the participants seem to want for nothing (apart from insight and common sense perhaps). Every room in the castle is sumptuous and seems to be provided with food and drink. And, despite their sadness (real or feigned) at the “murder” of one of their colleagues, the contestants seem to be making the most of the groaning board which provides their breakfast.
Reading the story of the wedding at Cana, when Jesus turned water into wine and provided plenty of the finest vintage the guests had ever tasted, is a reminder of the generosity of God whose love is shown by overflowing and abundant provision. Is the abundant provision at The Traitors' mansion similar to this? Well - yes and no.
The provision is certainly generous and one can have fun speculating on the conversation at the meeting that decided on the menus etc. There is a difference though - the makers of The Traitors are generous with the licence fee payers' money. God’s generosity is his own and totally his own.
However, the sumptuous provision in The Traitors' mansion is for all the contestants - the traitors and the faithful. No distinction is made. All are fed and watered. God’s generosity is also for all. The guests at the wedding at Cana were not asked how much they had already drunk nor were they required to show they were of good character. God’s unexpected abundance was available to all.
It's still the case today. Maybe not in vintage wine, but the unexpected abundance of God’s generous love is available to all - faithful or less than faithful.
Revd Stuart Wild is a Methodist minister from Lancashire where he strives to be a faithful.
Views expressed are the authors' own. Hypertext links to other websites are for the convenience of users only and do not constitute any endorsement or authorisation by Roots for Churches Ltd.
The week in focus is also available via facebook and Instagram.
Roots publishes weekly lectionary-based worship and learning resources online and in two magazines. FIND OUT MORE.
The week in focus for week beginning Sunday 12 January 2025
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‘Water, water, everywhere.’
Think about the significance of the water in this week’s Gospel reading:
Luke 3:15-17, 21-22
There’s been a lot of news about water this January. Firstly, the floods that followed a cold snap at the start of the year and threaten again with more cold weather on the way. Listening to and watching the coverage about why this is happening and what can be done it seems that despite flood defences, dredging and sand bags sometimes the water can’t be held back.
Then there are the incredible images of parts of Los Angeles on fire (BBC; Guardian). The LA fire department are heroically trying to battle the fire dropping tonnes of water on the blaze in an attempt to bring it under control, but the combination of dry ground and high winds is making this a very difficult task.
Finally, there’s an incredible story this week of a hiker who was lost for 13 days in New South Wales but managed to survive on a muesli bar, foraging for berries and, crucially, drinking water from creeks. It is a well-known fact that a human being can only survive around three days without liquid, so the water in the Australian mountain creeks gave the lost Hadi Nazari a chance of survival.
Water that can’t be held back, water fighting a dangerous fire and water for survival. In many ways the water in the story of Jesus’ baptism wraps all of this week’s water stories together:
As Jesus emerges from the River Jordan and his three years of ministry on the earth begin, a flood is released across humankind; an unstoppable wave of love and truth that will forever change all who come into contact with it.
We also know that Jesus’ message of love, grace and transformation is ultimately the only thing that defeats the fires that rage across this world. The fires of war, hate, misinformation, sadness, and all that afflicts us in this world – although overwhelming at times – can be put out by this life-giving water.
Lastly, in this Baptism story, the man who emerges from the water offers us more than just survival. He gives us fullness, completeness and everlasting joy.
Ideas for sermons or interactive talks
Water prayers
You will need: star shapes cut out of paper (ordinary photocopying paper works fine), shallow trays or dishes of water placed around the worship area, spare pencils
- Give out the stars and invite people to write a prayer on each with a pencil.
- Once each prayer is written, fold over each point to the centre of the star. (If you are using a five-pointed star when folded it will look like a pentagon).
- Take the star to the trays of water and, in turn, place them upon the surface of the water. The stars will unfold to reveal the prayers.
- Pray for each other around the trays of water
Isaiah prayer
Use the words from Isaiah at the start of the passage in John. Invite people to use some of the images and turn them into a prayer for today. For example, you could pray for people who are currently living with crooked paths such as war-torn places, that they would see God’s salvation or for people caught in the dark valleys of poor mental health to feel lifted up.
‘…Prepare the way for the Lord,
make straight paths for him.
Every valley shall be filled in,
every mountain and hill made low.
The crooked roads shall become straight,
the rough ways smooth.
And all people will see God’s salvation.’
Ignatian questions
Invite people to read v21-22 and imagine themselves at the scene. Use the following Ignatian questions to think about the story:
- What emotions arose as you read this story? Invite God into those emotions.
- What might those emotions be revealing?
- Were there any images that stood out to you? What did you notice about those images?
- Was something new revealed in this story that you hadn’t noticed before? What might God be wanting to show you in this revelation?
Questions for discussion
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How does the image of water resonate in our spiritual lives?
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Do you feel overwhelmed by the fires that rage in this world or full of hope that the flood of God’s love will bring transformation to humankind, or somewhere in-between?! Talk about how you feel with your neighbour.
Fiona Dorman is a freelance leadership consultant and mediator.
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Water is a vital part of this morning’s story. At the moment of his baptism Jesus is introduced by John and then acknowledged by God as the Messiah. In my imagination the water is calm and clean, and the day is warm and sunny. Meeting God in these waters is an appealing concept.
Water has featured in our weather over the first few days of the New Year. First, we had torrential rain, then heavy snow. Where I live we had five inches! As this has melted it has flowed into already over-full waterways and onto saturated ground, resulting in devastating flooding. There are multiple active flood warnings across England as I write. This water is dirty and cold; meeting God here does not sound as appealing.
Yet we cannot always choose where God meets us. Sometimes it is in the warm, clean water of life, when things are going well. At other times God meets us in the cold and dirty water of life, when we are struggling.
Questions for discussion
- What sustains us during the difficult times?
- Does it feel different when God meets us in the good times?
- How can we be present for others when they are struggling with dirty flood water, both literally and figuratively?
You may have young people in your group whose homes have been flooded. This event is likely to have been traumatic. It might be advisable to have an extra person present in case this discussion raises difficult memories.
Victoria Etherington is children’s, youth and family’s ministry leader for the Yorkshire North and East Methodist District.
Views expressed are the authors' own. Hypertext links to other websites are for the convenience of users only and do not constitute any endorsement or authorisation by Roots for Churches Ltd.
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Roots publishes weekly lectionary-based worship and learning resources online and in two magazines. FIND OUT MORE.
The week in focus for week beginning Sunday 5 January 2025
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Promise fulfilled, light shining
God’s promises are fulfilled when the light of the Kingdom shines (John 1:10-18)
Context
Death of former US President and Sunday School Teacher Jimmy Carter.
Post Office campaigners honoured for services to justice.
Parents of women killed by ex-boyfriends receive honours.
Ideas for sermons or interactive talks
The New Year is traditionally a time for honours in the United Kingdom. This year over 1200 people have been honoured. Some names are familiar because they are famous for being involved in sport and entertainment. Others are less well-known but are honoured for important service none the less. Many gifted people use their gifts for the benefit of others and that benefit brings light into the community. They are doing God’s work and playing a part in fulfilling God’s promises.
The Horizon IT scandal had an appalling effect on the lives of hundreds of sub-postmasters and their families. It could easily have remained hidden were it not for those brave women and men who fought for justice and shone a light on what had happened.
God’s promises are fulfilled when justice is seen to be done.
Carole Gould and Julie Devey co-founded the group Killed Women after their daughters - were killed in their homes by men they had ended relationships with.
Another campaigner, Nick Gazzard, whose daughter was murdered by her ex-boyfriend in 2014, was also recognised for his work around domestic violence and stalking. These campaigners are committed to continue to shine a light on domestic violence and ensure that there is more public awareness of the issue. God’s promises are fulfilled when people commit to continue ensuring the light of justice is shone.
The death of former US President Jimmy Carter has brought tributes from international statesmen past and present. Carter himself summed up his legacy as a commitment to peace. However historian Bill Leonard described Carter’s identity as inseparable from his vocation of over 70 years as a Sunday school teacher: “He has lived every week of his adult life in the study and teaching of the scriptures.” God’s promises were fulfilled through Carter in both a global and very personal way.
Questions for discussion
- Who would you give honours to and why?
- In what ways have you seen God’s promises fulfilled?
- In a world of darkness how is the light of Christ shining?
Revd Stuart Wild is a methodist minister serving on the Lancashire coast.
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“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it!” John 1:5
What a powerful verse for any time of year, but most certainly so uplifting to read on such a dark January. Usually at this time of year our Christmas decorations and lights are going back away, the once beautifully lit-up streets turn back to regular rows of houses and shops, and the cheer which fills the air in December shrinks away.
But this week it has felt even more dark and damp then ever with huge amounts of fog covering the UK, disrupting many festive travel plans, and now the threat of storms and high winds cancelling New Year’s eve’s celebrations.
Admittedly when we look out into the seemingly dark and gloomy world of January it can feel like the darkness has over come the light; cancelled plans, cancelled celebrations, cancelled light displays! But these things are not the true light which we have been promised. Does it highlight more greatly to you that the only promise we can then actually trust in is the promise of Jesus’ light? We may have promised to visit family over this week but the weather got in the way. Big bands such as Texas were promised to be performing on New Year’s ever, but the weather meant it has been cancelled. Ultimately we cannot fully trust the promises we make to others and them to us, as we’re not in control.
This week, please don’t feel disheartened if your promised plans have been broken - this isn’t the darkness winning. But it can show us how our trust should be put in the light and promise of the coming of Jesus Christ, the only promise that we know will stay real.
Throughout this week and indeed this new year, pray that you see how wondrous Jesus is, even when the world isn’t.
Natasia Bullock is Company Director of The B Tales Theatre Company
Views expressed are the authors' own. Hypertext links to other websites are for the convenience of users only and do not constitute any endorsement or authorisation by Roots for Churches Ltd.
Roots publishes weekly lectionary-based worship and learning resources online and in two magazines. FIND OUT MORE.
The week in focus for week beginning Sunday 29 December 2024
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Our hope in children
Children must be empowered and given space to amaze us (Luke 2.47)
Context
Christmastide is nothing if not a rollercoaster. Within just four days, the Church’s calendar throws us from the joy of Jesus’ birth into the barbaric stoning of St Stephen, then through the light of St John the Evangelist into the atrocity inflicted on the Holy Innocents and their families. And then this Sunday, we are suddenly pitched 12 years on, into the remarkable events of a visit to the Temple by Jesus, whose birth and boyhood parallel so much of Samuel’s early life.
Our lectionary offers no better time than Christmastide to reflect on the three strands of celebration, suffering and childhood – our own and others’ – which are woven together into our common human experience.
Last Friday 27 December, on the eve of Holy Innocents Day, UNICEF published a report entitled Children Under Attack, which opens with these words: “By almost every measure, 2024 has been one of the worst years on record for children living in conflict zones in UNICEF’s history. More than one in six children globally now live in areas affected by conflict, forced to face unthinkable violations.”
Ideas for sermons or interactive talks
It's an inescapable fact that while we celebrate, others suffer; and while we suffer, others celebrate. Reduced to its starkest elements, the theme is best expressed in the oft-quoted mediaeval Gregorian chant traditionally intoned on New Year’s Eve, Media vita in morte sumus, “In the midst of life we are in death.” There is no human celebration that is not tinged with wistfulness for what might have been, regret for past failures or sorrow for the absence of loved ones. How often, for instance, have we heard someone say, “Oh, Mum would have loved this!” or, “I wish Grandad could have been here!” or “Your sister would have been so proud of you!”?
When these sorts of thoughts come to mind, we are often recalled to the present moment by some antic on the part of a child. Whether the child does something unexpected – and often unintended – to make us laugh, or has a minor catastrophe, or simply utters a new word for the first time, we are immediately brought out of our wistfulness, regret or sorrow by a spontaneous laugh or gasp, or the need to rush to the rescue. The delight of a child can fill us with affection. The grief of a child can make us long to offer comfort. The achievement of a child can inspire us with admiration. The words of a child can make us see something in a new way.
In the Bible, it is the children, Jesus and Samuel, who teach the priests and scholars, and not the other way round. Jesus himself tells his followers, “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 18:3). This is something we should always be open to, for it is they, and not we, who will face the challenge of building a better world than the one we pass on to them.
In his remarkable 1974 novel Shardik, author Richard Adams writes: “The teaching… is simply that there isn't to be a deserted or unhappy child in the world. In the end, that's the world's only security: children are the future, you see. If there were no unhappy children, then the future would be secure.”
Questions for discussion
- When did you last learn something from a child? What was it?
- What does the Church need to learn from children?
- What did Jesus mean when he said we must become like little children?
- How can we empower children and give them space to teach us?
Robert Beard is an NHS worker and Church of England priest.
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Reaching potential
Ben Whitehead is an actor. As a Wallace and Gromit fan, he grew up doing voices, accents and impressions and, when a friend in Bristol, who was working with the producers of the Wallace and Gromit, Curse of the Were-Rabbit film, needed some actors to voice the characters, Whitehead jumped at the chance. Then, following the death of Peter Sallis in 2017, Whitehead was offered the opportunity to voice Wallace in the full-length feature film which was shown on Christmas Day: Vengeance Most Fowl.
In the film Gromit is concerned that Wallace is becoming too dependent on his inventions, especially when Wallace invents a "smart" gnome that seems to develop a mind of its own. It becomes clear that a vengeful figure from the past is masterminding things and so it falls to Gromit to battle sinister forces and save his master. Otherwise, Wallace may never be able to invent again!
In the temple Jesus engaged with the Jewish scholars and leaders. Through questions and answers he grew and began to reach his potential and to enable them to do the same. This was what God wanted. This was how he was enabled to fulfil his mission in adulthood. He took the opportunity when it presented itself. In the same way Ben Whitehead snatched the opportunity to be in the Were-Rabbit film.
Wallace was at risk of losing his potential. After all, what is the potential of an inventor if it is not to invent. In order to achieve this he needed the help and support of Gromit. In the same way Ben Whitehead needed the help of his friend, and Jesus and the Jewish teachers needed one another.
So, as we face the New Year, let us look for opportunities and, helped and supported by friends, let us seize them.
Of course prayer will help too.
Stuart Wild is a Methodist minister in Lancashire. He is also fond of Wensleydale cheese.
Views expressed are the authors' own. Hypertext links to other websites are for the convenience of users only and do not constitute any endorsement or authorisation by Roots for Churches Ltd.
The week in focus is also available via Twitter/X, facebook and Instagram.
ROOTS publishes weekly lectionary-based worship and learning resources online and in two magazines. FIND OUT MORE.
The week in focus for week beginning Sunday 22 December 2024
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Peace begins in me
God’s peace cannot be forced upon us; we must embrace it with our entire being. (Luke 1:47)
Context
Listen to the Center for Action and Contemplation podcasts to learn about transformative practices which make for peace.
Want to join a movement of peace-building?
It’s a sad commentary that an Internet search for “inner peace” leads almost anywhere except to Christian web sites!
Ideas for sermons or interactive talks
Micah speaks of peace being brought by the future Messiah, and Luke’s Gospel has Mary offering praise for what God has done—with an implied peace for Israel. Without careful reading, these passages can lead us towards a passivity/complacency that “peace” comes to us from without. However, closer examination of Mary’s and Micah’s words makes clear that, had they not been internally convinced and moved by God’s approach to them, we would never have received their words.
As the lectionary offers meagre substance regarding “peace, actually”, I want to suggest a look at Romans 12:2 wherein the Apostle Paul writes, “Do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of the mind, so that you may discern what is the will of God — what is good and acceptable and perfect.” The renewing of the mind of which Paul speaks is metanoia in Greek. Metanoia bespeaks a fundamental change in our point of view — of how we see the world and the people in it. In this world, peace is considered to be the absence of conflict; but this is not the discernment given by God. Until God’s peace reigns within each and every one of us, there will not be a peaceable kingdom anywhere on this earth. Peace really does begin in us.
Questions for discussion
When have you felt most at peace — with(in) yourself, with God, with others? What preceded that sense of peace? How can you cultivate a peaceful life?
My wife and I were recently wronged by someone who chose to tell lies about us to many of our friends. We decided to leave it with God and neither seek redress nor revenge …but in my mind there still proliferated myriad ways to seek revenge! Have you been in such a situation? How did you feel? How hard was it to follow the path of peace as opposed to self-justification or revenge? Why does turning the other cheek feel like lifting 500 kilos?
Revd Dr Jack Lawson is a free-lance writer and novelist. For more information visit: www.jacknlawson.com; https://jacknlawson.com/blog; https://wingsepress.com/pages/lawson-jack-n
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School is breaking up and shops are full of tinsel and ‘Santa stop here’ signs. The news is full of stories about inflation (going up) and winter fuel benefits (which have been stopped) making peace feel a long way away for many people. Christmas is a great time for families coming together but that also makes it a great time for arguments as the stress of getting things done hits the multiplier of people’s expectations.
Mary’s situation was full of potential stress - how would Joseph react? What would her parents do? What was everyone in the neighbourhood going to say? Her response was to find someone she trusted and to visit them - finding some space and peace to process what was happening.
Sometimes we are in Mary’s position, dealing with changes that weren’t of our choosing and looking for some time and space to think things through. Sometimes we can be an Elizabeth, seeing someone looking to us for encouragement and hope.
Whichever of these resonates for you, it’s worth thinking about how and when you can access God’s peace - and who you can look to for encouragement in the hectic days of Christmas. Look at what is under your control, what you can change, and then let as much of the rest go past without needing to react to it. As Mary did, recognise that God is in control and trust that he is with you in everything that you and your friends are facing.
Steve Taylor shares the job of joint-vicar of St Paul’s CofE Church, Harrow with his wife, Ali. They share their home with their youngest child, two cats and numerous fish.
Views expressed are the authors' own. Hypertext links to other websites are for the convenience of users only and do not constitute any endorsement or authorisation by Roots for Churches Ltd.
The week in focus is also available via facebook and Instagram.
ROOTS publishes weekly lectionary-based worship and learning resources online and in two magazines. FIND OUT MORE.
The week in focus for week beginning Sunday 15 December 2024
Sermon ideas on Zephaniah 3.14-20 for adults and young people - Intergenerational sermon and discussion ideas based on this week's news including: Syrian uprising; fall of Assad; Syrian prisoner release; World Cup Saudi 2034; Home-comings; What is home?; Being at home with God
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Coming home
Where is home? Think about what this means and how with God we are always at home.
Context
It feels like the theme ‘coming home’ unites a few disparate news stories this week. from the serious to the not so serious. The main, and most consequential story, is of course the dramatic change in power in Syria and fall of Bashir al Assad. The images of prisoners being released and allowed to return home to their families after years of incarceration were both shocking and moving.
We’ve also witnessed thousands of exiles crossing the Syrian border to return to their homeland, return to the families they left behind and return to lives interrupted by the regime.
It’s a fast-moving story full of complex homecomings.
In the world of UK politics issues around immigration rumble on, the subject this week dominating PMQs. Whichever side of the debate we find ourselves on, at the heart of the matter is the problematic issue of ‘home’. Where is it? Can you find a new one? Who and who cannot call this country home?
Finally, in the world of sport, the English anthem of ‘it’s coming home’ has been quietly playing in the background as the thorny issue of the World Cup being hosted by Saudi Arabia exercises the world of punditry. Will the English team be bringing it home from the middle east in 2034?
Despite the very different weight of the stories and issues in this week's news, the idea of home resonates. Going home; being at home; and bringing something back home are powerful ideas that speak to people across the globe.
Zephaniah’s words in chapter 3 speak passionately about home. It describes being brought home and the outpouring of rejoicing that takes place when this happens. Reading Zephaniah in today’s world, with today’s wars and violence is complex but the sentiments around a homecoming embedded into the text give us all pause for thought. Where is home for us? What does it mean?
A couple 2000 years ago had to change their home when they were instructed to return to their place of birth for a census. They had to temporarily set up home in a stable ready for the birth of their son. An unsatisfactory home in many ways. But despite the external issues this new home was filled with love and light, that extended well beyond their home to all of us. So, wherever we are, at home or not, we can rest in the home of God’s love and hope.
Ideas for sermons or interactive talks
- Give everyone a piece of paper and pencil and invite them to draw a picture called ‘home’. Stress that the quality of the art is unimportant. More important is the image that comes to mind when someone says ‘home’. Once people have had some sketching time, ask people to show their drawing to someone sitting nearby and explain what it represents and why they chose this for their drawing.
- Put up an image of the stable in the Christmas story. Invite people to spend a minute reflecting on this ‘home’.
Pray
Thank you for the stable home that brought love and hope to all of us wherever we are.
May we find our way home this Christmas.
Not just to the house or flat we live in,
Not to our favourite holiday place,
Not even to our country of birth,
But to our home in Christ,
To live in love and hope wherever we are, at all times.
Amen
Questions for discussion
Fiona is a freelance leadership consultant and mediator.
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Joyful news
“Joy to the world the Lord is come
Let earth receive her king!”
- How festive are you feeling?
- Is your tree finally up?
- Are you busy Christmas shopping and now over halfway through your advent calendar?
- How do the festive activities make us feel? Joyful? Excited? Overwhelmed? Sometimes the events leading up to Christmas Day can leave us more exhausted than joyous!
Our passage this week seeks to bring a deep joy in the Lord and the joy of a better future - of what is yet to come: I will restore you in those future days.’
How do we then, having already received Jesus and the joyful news which is prophesied about here, seek to find joy? How do we make the promise of a joyful future a joyful present?
I did some searching for joy and came across this uplifting newspaper – The Happy News - which celebrates moments of joy. Have a look for yourself and celebrate the joyful news of others by praising God for each article and story.
But of course real joy isn’t a good news story. It’s a deep-rooted joy, a joy that can only come from God. And this joy isn’t just for the good times and the festivities - it's for all year round and throughout all that life brings. I’m often struck by the lyric from Cody Carnes Firm Foundation: I’ve still got joy in chaos.
So this week as the Christmas planning and traditions perhaps are a struggle, or appear to be turning into chaos, let our hearts be filled with deep joy, true joy of the Lord, and all that is still yet to come.
Natasia Bullock, Company Director, The B Tales
Views expressed are the authors' own. Hypertext links to other websites are for the convenience of users only and do not constitute any endorsement or authorisation by Roots for Churches Ltd.
The week in focus is also available via Twitter/X, facebook and Instagram.
ROOTS publishes weekly lectionary-based worship and learning resources online and in two magazines. FIND OUT MORE.
The week in focus for week beginning Sunday 8 December 2024
Sermon ideas on Luke 1.68-79 (Benedictus) for adults and young people - Intergenerational sermon and discussion ideas based on this week's news including: Israel-Lebanon ceasefire; Strictly come dancing shock Dance-Off results; Conclave film release; God's unexpected workings; finding peace in Advent
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Up-to-the-minute jumping-off points for sermons, linking the reading to the latest news and global issues
God in the silence
Seeing the outcome of God’s silent activity in Luke 1:76-79.
Context
The ceasefire in Lebanon continues.
Strictly Come Dancing’s Pete and Jowita avoid the dance off despite being bottom of the leaderboard.
Conclave, the film of Robert Harris’ book about the election of a new Pope is released.
Ideas for sermons and interactive talks
In the Benedictus (Luke 1:68-79) we hear the voice of Zechariah, a voice that had been silenced as a result of his reaction to the news of Elizabeth’s pregnancy. In his silence God has been at work and the initial outcome is the birth of John. Zechariah here prophesies of the nature and work that John will accomplish. We are not told how John will be prepared for this vocation but Zechariah’s words are clear and are fulfilled. The ceasefire in Lebanon appeared to come out of the blue but it is similarly evidence of God working silently through diplomats to achieve a peace - however temporary.
Pete and Jowita came bottom of the leaderboard in last week’s Strictly Come Dancing. The judges gave them low marks but they were saved by the public. The general reaction to the announcement that they were not in the Dance Off was a surprise. Pete and Jowita responded with amazement and joy. Zechariah’s reaction to the birth of John and his vision of John’s mission was to praise God. There are times when the silent unexpected workings of God take us by surprise. The wise will see God at work here and respond accordingly.
Conclave is a mystery thriller where, following the death of the Pope, the College of Cardinals gathers for a papal conclave to choose the new pope. It is a story filled with twists and turns and attempts at power-politics in which the leading character, Cardinal Lawrence played by Ralph Fiennes, seeks to see the action of God and rediscover his own faith.
The way God works is not always obvious as it is happening. Sometimes it is only by looking back that we see the real purposes of God’s activity. At the time Zechariah’s statements in Luke 1 were brave and audacious and we are not told how they were received. However, with the benefit of our knowledge of both John’s and Jesus’ missions, we see the inherent truth in what Zechariah said.
Questions for discussion
- Have you ever been surprised by God’s answer to prayer?
- What has happened recently that you think God should be praised for?
- Can you suggest ways to help someone whose faith is wavering?
- What does it mean today to say that 'the dawn from on high will break upon us, to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace.’ ?
Revd Stuart Wild is a Methodist Minister serving God on the Lancashire coast.
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What does the word ‘Peace’ mean to you? I invite you to close your eyes for a moment and think about how peace makes you feel. What does it look like? When have you experienced peace? Is there anything that gets in the way of feeling that peace?
It can be hard to believe that God has a loving plan when the world around us seems to be filled with such little peace. Finding love amongst it all is difficult to say the least. Life has thrown me a few curve balls this year, so I can only speak from experience here when I say that practising trust during these times helps to find that peace. Isaac Newton is quoted as viewing himself as a boy playing on the seashore occasionally finding a smoother pebble or a prettier shell than usual, whilst the great ocean of truth lay all undiscovered before him. This brings one of Corrie Ten Boom’s quotes to me. She once said "We should never be afraid to trust an unknown future to a known God.".
"The great ocean of truth and life lies undiscovered before us." How wonderful is that? I would encourage you to find peace in the pebbles you find as you journey through Advent. Let us use them as a reminder of God’s loving plan that lies unknown before us.
Lindsay Wright is a freelance writer and designer from Lancashire www.lwcreative.co.uk
Views expressed are the authors' own. Hypertext links to other websites are for the convenience of users only and do not constitute any endorsement or authorisation by Roots for Churches Ltd.
ROOTS publishes weekly lectionary-based worship and learning resources online and in two magazines. FIND OUT MORE.