Reflections, readings, prayers & blogs
This page was last updated on 20th July 2020 at 10.30am
Our pandemic icon of the pieta blessed at the re-commencing of worship on Sundays at Heckington
AN INVITATION TO CONTRIBUTE TO THIS PAGE
This page was prompted through reading a small book by Mark Green called "The one about ..." . It is a collection of 8 true stories about people who recognised that God has been working in and through in their everyday lives. Not famous people, or great saints, just everyday people like you and me who God is at work in and speaking to, even though we might not recognise it. Several people had already sent some reflections from their quiet/prayer times or things others have sent them during this time of enforced exile from our usual daily routines whist the corona virus is taking its toll. Perhaps people are asking "where is God in all this?". As usual 'God is with us' even though the world is being shaken, perhaps for our own good to awaken us from our sleepy apathy and complacencies about the state of this beautiful planet which our accumulated lifestyles have been destroying. Perhaps the planet is starting to bite back. Perhaps the most important thing to be attentive to at present is "What is God saying to us at this time?", and to act upon it. These voices are best discerned by the whole community and not just individually. So if you would like to send me any thoughts, reflections, prayers, or readings that have touched you, I'll put some here on this page so others can be blessed, challenged, or encouraged, as we journey through this pandemic together.
REFLECTIONS
Google has reported an upsurge of people looking for 'prayer' in their search engine. Is that just the people of the faith communities, or are others now seeking God? As our Lord said "Seek and you will find, knock and the door will be opened to you".
Four Candles sent in by Jo Marriott
Reflection on Leviticus 1 to 5
READINGS
"This I call to mind, and therefore I have hope: The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, His mercies never come to an end; They are new every morning; Great is Your faithfulness". (Lamentations 3:21-23)
"The limitless Love of God. The Love that God most high has for our soul is so great that is surpasses understanding. No created being can comprehend how much, and how sweetly, and how tenderly our maker loves us. Our in-born will is to have God, and the goodwill of God is to have us. There is no end to our willing and longing until we know God in the fulness of joy. Then our desire is filled. He wills that our occupation shall be in striving to know and love him until we are made whole in heaven. Our life is grounded in faith, with hope and love besides". Taken from Enfolded in Love by Julian of Norwich and was sent in by Chrissy on 8th May - Mother Julian's day .
SONGS
Our talented Church Warden Elaine Huckle has offered up 'a song for the world' - Ave Maria (See You Tube link below)
Liz Thompson sent in this link below - Click and Be Blessed
PRAYERS
"Shield us, Lord, from all evil, and lift us from apathy and despair, that even when we are terrified, we may trust your power to save; through Jesus Christ our Lord". Amen (Common Worship Daily Prayer - Psalm 3)
"Lord Jesus Christ, may the tears shed in your earthly life be balm for all who weep, and may the prayers of your pilgrimage give strength to all who suffer; for your mercy's sake". Amen (Common Worship Daily Prayer - Psalm 6)
BLOGS
All shall be well - remembering Julian of Norwich - 8th May by Rev Chris
All things bright & beautiful by Rev Chris
Title deeds or Pilgrim stamps by Rev Chris
Racking up the past by John Knight
Canon Beverley and David Stark ran a daily 'blog' on email with daily chat and news to encourage and support those who are self isolating or feeling alone or lonely or just missing going out for coffee and chat. Their 51st edition for VE Day is below and well worth a read with contributions from many within their group. With restrictions now being eased the blog has now finished.
VE Day Round Robin Blog number 51