“But, beloved, remember ye the words which were spoken before of the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ; How that they told you there should be mockers in the last time, who should walk after their own ungodly lusts. These be they who separate themselves, sensual, having not the Spirit. But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost, Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life.” Jude 1:17-21 KJV
God of love and mercy,
Jude’s letter is short but certainly packs a punch relevant to every generation. Warning us that we should not be surprised that there is a difference in behaviour and motivation between those who believe and those who don’t. It is as different as heaven and hell. I do not like to think of it Lord, when it comes to those I love who do not believe in You.
But Jude reminds us that our first responsibility is to ourselves, to make sure we are not disillusioned, doubt or loose faith in You. Or we will be lost and not able to help others. We must recognise that since the first day of Your resurrection there have been those who mocked and wanted to walk in their own way. It is just the same 2,000 years later! But it will not be for ever . . .
For now the victorious way is to pray, with Your Holy Spirit helping us. To keep ourselves living holy lives with You and wrapped in Your lavish love. Keeping our eyes and hope fixed on the future we have in You, God. Tomorrow and forever. Your way, Your truth and Your life (John 14:6). Keep us alive through Your Son, Jesus Christ.
In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
God of love and mercy,
For our family, friends, neighbours. Todays needs. Strengthen their faith or help them find You.
For our Ministers, lay leaders, church members. Opportunities to talk about Jesus.
For our nation and future Government. Be amongst all that is said and done, reveal the best.
For Ukraine, a powerful move of Your Spirit to change circumstances and end this war.
For the widows and orphans in many countries that have had or are at war. Churches there.
For undercover missionaries working overseas supporting underground churches.
For Gaza, and the Middle East. A move forward past history and vengeance to make peace.
For our media. What is shown before the watershed and after. Endless brainwashing advertising.
For our justice system to work with justice, love, mercy and peace and public protection.
For us to remember the stories of Jesus in Your Word and drowned out the unbelieving world.
In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
Worship Monday 10th June 2024
I love this tune! It just brings this hymn into today and is much more cheerful.
Tell me the stories of Jesus
I love to hear;
Things I would ask him to tell me
If He were here:
Scenes by the wayside,
Tales of the sea,
Stories of Jesus,
Tell them to me.
First let me hear how the children
Stood round his knee,
And I shall fancy his blessing
Resting on me;
Words full of kindness,
Deeds full of grace,
All in the love-light
Of Jesus’ face.
Show me that scene in the garden
of bitter pain;
Show me the cross where my Savior
for me was slain;
Sad ones or bright ones
so that they be
Stories of Jesus
tell them to me.
Lyrics: William H Parker