Thursday 23rd April | Becca Huttly
Readings
Reflection
In trying times like these I often find myself asking ‘is it okay to struggle?’ or should I be showing others that I know everything is going to be okay because I have God. Psalm 5 David says, “Hear my cry for help, my king and my God for to you I pray.” This affirms to us that it is natural to be struggling but we have the blessing of trust in God, knowing that he hears us and cares for us. There is not much we can truly trust at the moment with Covid-19 myths sprouting up everywhere and uncertainty creeping into our lives. But the truth of God that Easter has reminded us of recently remains a true constant that we can hold onto. This firm trust in God is seen throughout our Psalm passages with the promise that “he remains faithful forever.” Psalm 146:6
We see Joshua as he takes over leadership of the Israelites after the death of Moses. God is a great comfort to him saying “Be bold be strong for the lord your God is with you.” He says this three times, reassuring him that he will “never leave or forsake” him. Much like the Israelites we are stepping into uncharted territory and having to take each day at a time but with the confidence that we are being led into a promised land that will be infinitely better than now. God is encouraging us to claim this time as our own, to grow with him and to spend time listening to him about how he wants to use us now and in the promised land.
In Ephesians Paul places an emphasis on remaining “strong in the lord and in his mighty power.” This passage talks about the armour of God putting on the “breastplate of righteousness… and taking up the shield of faith.” Many of us are not facing a physical fight but one where we sit back and wait for the world to be ready again, yet why does that seem harder? But in doing so we are protecting others. By staying at home, we are strengthening the armour of our communities. We still stand firm in the face mask of truth, behind which we proclaim the everlasting promise of God and our faith is shielded daily by His word. However, for our incredible frontline workers who are at the forefront of the battle, their armour looks very different. Every piece of PPE equipment is vital protection for everyone. Today the battle and its armour may look different but is no less vital.
Prayers
Father God, thank that we can put our trust in you and your unfailing love. Father help us to look to you when we are struggling and reassure us when we lack strength.
Almighty God, thank you for our amazing frontline workers, who are working tirelessly to keep us safe. We pray that you provide them with rest and protection as they step into their roles.
Spirit of God, may you help us to be confident in your promises for us today and in the weeks to come.
Amen.
Collect
God of hosts,
Who so kindled the flame of love
In the heart of your servant George
That he bore witness to the risen Lord
By his life and by his death:
Give us the same faith and power of love
That we who rejoice in his triumphs
May come to share with him the fullness of the resurrection;
Through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord,
Who is alive and reigns with you,
In the unity of the Holy Spirit,
One God, now and forever.
Amen.
