“To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven:
2 A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant and a time to pluck up that which is planted;
3 A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up;
4 A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance;
5 A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing;
6 A time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away;
7 A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak;
8 A time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace.” Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 NKJV
God of beginnings and ends,
We reach, for me, the hard line: a time to kill and a time to heal. Theses few verses raise some deep questions for me about death and war and killing. And we don’t always find answers this side of heaven. Or we look from different angles and see only part, as through a mirror darkly? (1 Corinthians 13:12). We do have Your 10 commandments clearly stating no murder, but is war sometimes justified? I love the children’s version of the 10 commandments:
1. Thou shalt have no more Gods but me, 2. Before no idol bow thy knee.
3. Take not the Name of God in vain: 4. Nor dare the Sabbath–day profane.
5. Give both thy parents honour due. 6. Take heed that thou no murder do.
7. Abstain from words and deeds unclean: 8. Nor steal, though thou art poor and mean.
9. Nor make a wilful lie, nor love it. 10. What is thy neighbour’s do not covet.
It is a dilemma when we think what would have happened in the last world war, had no one fought. And when we look at Russia and Ukraine. Solomon (if he is the author) is speaking out of his experience. He was forced to take up arms and fight when peace and his peoples freedom was threatened. And should there be a death penalty? We mourn at man’s sin and we pray that You will help us and our world find peace and healing.
We wait with faith, eyes fixed on Jesus. And know that whatever happens – You are with us, you are still God. We can put all our hope and trust in You.
In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
God of beginnings and endings,
For our family, friends, neighbours. For todays needs, for healing, peace, provision, well being.
For our Ministers, lay leaders, church members. A boost of faith and hope and love.
For the community where we live and those who keep it safe and serviced.
For the Royal family and Charles and Kates return to duties and ongoing treatment.
For our nation and future Government. Lay the foundation of peace for the next government.
For Gaza, and the Middle East. Move those with power to find a way to peace.
For Ukraine, a move of Your Spirit to change hearts and end war.
For our armed forces and the many duties they do peacekeeping around the world.
For the national Health service, all those who work in it. Those who need it.
For us to know Your security amid the many changes and challenges. For peace in our lives and families.
In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
Worship Sunday 16th June 2024
Sometimes we struggle with what’s going on in the world. This song reminds us it is a mess but that God is still God. He will always prevail. I only remember the words of the chorus and that is the bit I need.
Where o where’s Your presence o God?
In this dry and weary land?
So many people drifting away,
How we need to understand;
You’re still God;
Even when we’re unbelieving.
Still God;
When we’re desperate for our healing.
Still God, still God, You’re still God.
You’re still God;
Even when our friends desert us.
Still God;
Even through the things that hurt us.
Still God, You’re still God;
So I will, be still, and know you are God.
Where o where’s Your Kingdom O God?
We have let holiness go.
So many idles litter our land;
We’ve got to let this nation know.
You’re still God;
When the government has no answers.
Still God;
When the media lowers the standard.
Still God, still God, you’re still God.
You’re still God;
When the plans we make are worthless.
Still God;
When we lose our sense of purpose.
Still God, still God;
So I will, be still, and know you are God.
When will Jesus really be seen
Through the church that bears His name?
Agents of His kingdom, His peace,
In the world for which He came.
You’re still God;
Even though you were rejected.
Still God;
Though you were ridiculed, deserted.
Still God, still God, you’re still God.
You’re still God;
Though you suffered execution,
Still God,
You’re alive and Christ our champion.
Still God, still God;
So I will, be still, and know you are God.