“But when the Jewish Festival of Tabernacles was near, 3 Jesus’ brothers said to him, “Leave Galilee and go to Judea, so that your disciples there may see the works you do. 4 No one who wants to become a public figure acts in secret. Since you are doing these things, show yourself to the world.” 5 For even his own brothers did not believe in him. 6 Therefore Jesus told them, “My time is not yet here; for you any time will do. 7 The world cannot hate you, but it hates me because I testify that its works are evil. 8 You go to the festival. I am not going up to this festival, because my time has not yet fully come.” 9 After he had said this, he stayed in Galilee. However, after his brothers had left for the festival, he went also, not publicly, but in secret. ”
John 7:2-9 NIV
Lord Jesus,
It must have been hard knowing that Your own brothers did not really believe You or that You were doing the right thing. But then they had known You growing up. But then again, that must have given them some insight? Hearing about the story of Your birth, water to wine and seeing other miracles. Unless they resented that You were special.
It is hard for us Lord who have found You and know You and love You, to have brothers or sisters or parents and close friends who do not know You or want to. I am grateful that both my mother and father became believers before their promotion to glory. But I am concerned for other close family members and friends. Some who I have to be careful even saying, God bless, to. We can only leave them with You and ask Your Holy Spirit to move in their lives.
Your brothers unbelief did not deter You from doing Your Fathers will. You still went to the festival but not to be in conflict with them or argue. Rather to hear Your Father and follow His lead. Help us to do Your will and try not be in conflict with those who cannot see. But still follow You. Help us to avoid needless conflict and find ways to show Your and our love.
In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
Lord Jesus,
For our family, extended family, friends, neighbours.
For unbelieving members of our family to have hearts softened to hear You.
For our Ministers, lay leaders, church members. Sunday school teachers.
For our king and all those in authority (1 Timothy 2:2).
For Parliament, the Kings speech.
For Gaza, Middle East, solutions for peace for all.
For Ukraine. Send a miracle, an end to war.
For USA amid political decisions and debates.
For the new children’s Malaria vaccines being trialled successfully in Africa.
For a peaceful summer free from violence and crime.
For tireless Bible translators and those who take them abroad.
For Christian churches around the world, small and large
For us to enjoy the day and find time to pray for our close family.
In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
Worship Friday 19th July 2024
This hymn picks up on our love of talking about the weather – but God’s Light and refreshment.
Your love, shining like the sun,
Pouring like the rain,
Raging like the storm,
Refreshing me again.
I receive Your love.
Your grace frees me from the past,
It purges every sin,
It purifies my heart
And heals me from within,
I receive Your grace.
Pour over me,
Pour over me,
Let Your rain flood this thirsty soul.
Pour over me Your waves of love,
Pour over me.
I come and lay my burden down
Gladly at Your feet,
I’m opening up my heart,
Come make this joy complete;
I receive Your peace.
Lyrics: Stuart Townend