“Then he (Jesus) began to teach them by saying:
“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to them. “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. “Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.
“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be satisfied. “Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called the children of God. “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to them.”
Matthew 5:2-10 NET
God and Father,
Another year has rushed by and we are directed again to remember. To worship You, not the glory of won wars, to pray war will cease and give thanks for our freedom and remember the cost in lives. Even if we cannot get to a cenotaph. Many of us now cannot remember those who gave there lives, we were too young or not born. Some of us are only here because of those who did come back! So we give thanks. And we remember the one who gave His life for freedom from sin.
Today in the midst of more change, another Prime Minister, another new leader of the opposition, new cabinets, new challenges to our finances, we reflect on what having You as our unchangeable, rock solid God means. We can stop and take stock – to get Your perspective on life. You do not always take away the difficult, painful or stressful but You stick with us to see it through.
When I look back, at times of want, bereavement, difficulties at work, disagreements at home and times of great responsibility, I can see Your hand at work and know that I was and am blessed. Today, right now we are blessed. Words could never express what it means to have You in our lives. Help us to remember those who made our lives free in times of war and remember You who gives true freedom.
In the blessed name of Jesus Christ we pray, Amen.
God our Father,
For our family, friends, neighbours, those we promised to pray for.
For our fellowship, ministers and our and neighbouring congregations. New comers.
For our king and His family and all those in authority, the Government (1 Timothy 2:2).
For Ukraine and Russia. An end to Putin’s plans. Protection from Trumps interference.
For Israel, Lebanon, the Middle East. Countries in conflict. For the miracle of Peace.
For unbelieving world rulers to lift their eyes and see the need for peace, not taking sides.
For negative, pessimistic voices to be overtaken by those with positive hope and suggestions.
For churches in war torn areas, under persecution and those persecuted personally for their faith.
For our future church leaders being born around the world to be protected and hear Your call.
For us to remember and give thanks for our family who went through world wars. To give thanks we were born and appreciate our freedom today and all our blessings.
In the powerful name of Jesus we pray.
Worship Meditation – Sunday 10th November 2024
What a beautiful hymn. My soul will say I am blessed . . .
Some days you may lead me through green pastures
My heart drinks in deep the waters sweet
And some days you may lead me through the desert
Even then you’re still the reason
I can say:
I am blessed beyond measure
So far beyond what’s gained through earthly treasures
Whatever comes my way
Still my soul will say I am blessed
I am blessed.
Through the troubled pain and disappointments
When it seems that I have nothing left
You will never leave me or forsake me
I will testify until my dying breath
I am blessed beyond measure
So far beyond what’s gained through earthly treasures
Whatever comes my way
Still my soul will say I am blessed
I am blessed
You alone are my reward
With you I want for nothing more
And because your goodness follows me all of my days
I am blessed beyond measure
So far beyond what’s gained through earthly treasures
O whatever comes my way
Still my soul will say
I am blessed
I am blessed
I am blessed
I am blessed
I am blessed
Lyrics: Michael Farren / Kenna West / Karen Peck