I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one: I in them and you in me. May they be brought to complete unity to let the world know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me. John 17:23 Comment I find unity hard. I...
Jesus and the disciples try to get away for some rest … Then because so many were coming and going that they did not even have time to eat, he said to them “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest”. Mark 6:30-34 Comment Jesus planned for his disciples to have some peace and quiet...
O God, you are my God; I earnestly search for you. My soul thirsts for you; my whole body longs for you in this parched and weary land where there is no water. Psalm 63:1 (NLT) Comment How do you feel about what’s in the news these days? I have to admit to feeling downright depressed when I hear about...
Accept one another, then, for the glory of God, as Christ has accepted you. Romans 15:7 GNT Comment New Year New You? That’s what the world is shouting at me right now. The old year is out, the new one is in. We’ve had a break and now it’s time for a fresh start. January is also nick named ‘divorce...
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all...
The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned …. For to us a child is born, to us a son is given and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Isaiah...
Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told. Luke 2:19-20 Comment The third week of Advent began last Sunday – traditionally it is called ‘Gaudete’ or ‘Joy Sunday’. Joy is fundamental to...
The angel said to them “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Saviour has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This shall be a sign to you; you will find a baby wrapped in cloths lying in...
See, darkness covers the earth and thick darkness is over the peoples, but the Lord rises upon you and his glory appears over you. Nations will come to your light, and kings to the brightness of your dawn. Isaiah 60:2-3 Comment This week we begin a series of reflections and prayers for Advent. I grew up with the Lutheran family...
When they (the Magi) saw the star, they were overjoyed. On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. Matthew 2:10-11 NIV Comment Do you ever feel Christmas is upside-down? A season which should be...
