“A bruised reed he will not break, and a smouldering wick he will not snuff out. In faithfulness he will bring forth justice;” Isaiah 42:3 NIV
“A bruised reed he will not break, and a smouldering wick he will not snuff out, till he has brought justice through to victory.” Matthew 12:20 NIV
Almighty God,
Many Old Testament verses talk about defeating enemies. But then Isaiah speaks of one who will come and be victorious in a new totally different way. And we see the promise of Jesus. Jesus, You came and were full of compassion for the weak, the dispossessed, the sick and those in need of Your Fathers mercy. You gave back the only son to the grieving widow at Nain (Luke 7:13-15). You allowed a woman with an issue of blood and lepers to touch You and be healed. Behaviour which offended the self righteous in Jesus time. (Luke 8:43-48). Luke’s gospel is full of Your compassion and mercy.
You were not a task driven Saviour. You did not come to tick a set of boxes and then go home. You came to love, save, forgive and heal. You still do and we love You Lord. A bruised reed, a smouldering wick – tiny things thrown out as of no value. But You see the value of every life and each vulnerable person and You are faithful. Give us faith to know Your compassion and practice it ourselves.
In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
Suggestions for prayer . . .
Almighty God,
For our family and friends. For all their needs today, those near, distant and broken relationships.
For our neighbours and neighbourhood to prosper and grow. To care for each other.
For our church, Ministers, lay leaders, members. For all those who work for You willingly.
For the royal family. For continued healing and family unity.
For our Parliament. In a world of turmoil to be calm and hear Your leading, for an end to war.
For those waiting results of medical tests, results, interviews or outcomes.
For sufferers of leprosy and those treating and researching.
For Ukraine, Gaza, Sudan, Myanmar, all places of conflict. Bring an end to war. Speak peace to stubborn hearts. Bless the peacemakers with power.
We pray for children caught in the mist of conflict. Bless food and medical agencies.
For those who find it hard to understand weakness in others. Patience..
For good marriages and Your help in those that are struggling.
For what we need for today to roll along successfully. With open eyes to see Your blessings.
In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
Worship Saturday 20th April 2024
Meekness and majesty
Manhood and Deity
In perfect harmony
The Man who is God
Lord of eternity
Dwells in humanity
Kneels in humility
And washes our feet
O what a mystery
Meekness and majesty
Bow down and worship
For this is your God
This is your God
This is Your God
Father’s pure radiance
Perfect in innocence
Yet learns obedience
To death on a cross
Suffering to give us life
Conquering through sacrifice
And as they crucify
Prays: ‘Father forgive.’
Wisdom unsearchable
God the invisible
Love indestructible
In frailty appears
Lord of infinity
Stooping so tenderly
Lifts our humanity
To the heights of His throne
Lyrics: Graham Kenrick