“You must put away all bitterness, anger, wrath, quarrelling, and slanderous talk—indeed all malice. Instead, be kind to one another, compassionate, forgiving one another, just as God in Christ also forgave you.” Ephesians 4:31-32 NET
God who forgives,
Stand in a primary school playground for a while and we soon see that the children need to be reminded to be kind to one another. Look around as an adult and it is evident the lesson still needs to be reinforced. And it is not just stopping the unkind and leaving a void, it is putting something in its place.
As Christians we like to think we are kind. Perhaps we are not unkind very often . . . but are we actively kind? I wonder how easily we are hurt, just a little put out? Can we remember past offences. Some of us have better memories than others! I try to let things wash over me God, but they do leave a sediment now and again.
What does actively being kind mean? Giving extra attention to the person who needs it even if we are tired? Being friendly and patient with the personal who is sometimes brusque? Lord God, You are so kind to us. You are patient, You do not boast about Your holiness and keep reminding us of our sin. You do not dishonour us to others, You are not self-seeking, easily angered and keep no record of our wrongs. You do not delight in evil but rejoice in the truth. You always protect, always trust, always hope, always persevere. Your love never fails. (1 Corinthians 13:4-8)
In response – help us to be kind to one another.
In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
Suggestions for prayer . . .
God who forgives,
For our family and friends and neighbours. May they know Your kindness in answered prayer.
For our church, Ministers, lay leaders, members. Help them know Your kindness and share it.
For new and established churches to grow in strength and numbers and give the glory to God.
For the royal family. That there might be healing and kindness leading to reconciliation.
For our Government. For our nation. For the decision makers. To hear God’s wisdom.
For Ukraine, to stay free and move Russia to change their attitude and withdraw from war.
For Gaza, empower talks towards next steps and a kind way forward to peace.
For reconciliation and kindness wherever there has been division. In families, politics, nations.
For those who bridge the gap with food banks, emergency housing, hostels, fostering.
For those who bridge the gap by listening: Samaritans, child help lines, prayer lines.
For a day to give thanks for Your kindness and a day to just be kind.
In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
Worship Tuesday 14th May 2024
A new song to me.
Let the fragrance of my life
Be a pleasing sacrifice
Every decision every moment
May You be glorified
Make me like You
Come mould me shape me
Do what only You can do
Make me like You
Here I am come take me
All my life belongs to You
Make me like You
Let the fragrance of my life
Be a pleasing sacrifice
Every decision every moment
May You be glorified
My one thing
I want nothing more now
Tune my heart to Your sound
Be my all in all
My worship costly I lay all down
I’ll be like oil poured out
Every drop is Yours
Lyrics: Brian McCleery