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July/August issue highlights from Martin

Caroline Wickens’ introduction to the Gospel readings covered in this issue reflects on the context and purpose of Matthew’s Gospel.

The readings can all be seen as responses to the question ‘What is the kingdom of heaven like?’ A series of pictures that help us to understand who Jesus is, and what he is teaching and asking of those who would follow him, individually and as a community.

One of those Gospel readings – that for 20 August – is the story of Jesus and the Canaanite woman, challenging us about issues of racism, exclusion and marginalisation.

We are very pleased that Chine McDonald has written a reflection on some of these issues in the contemporary church context.

Fair weather or foul, summer or winter, there is always something to do outside. This issue’s Discovering God encourages us to go for a walk and look for signs of God in creation – the Maker’s mark, if you like. Discovering God is presented as something for a group to do together, but it is very flexible. You could also offer the prayers, activities and ideas, perhaps with minor adjustment to suit the local context, for people to engage with at home or on their own. Browse all ROOTS Discovering God resources.