The 20th

Take Action

If our faith does not lead us to action, then it has become a dead creedal affirmation of lifeless beliefs. Some of us are already giving of our time, talent and treasure to the limits of our ability; others, maybe not. In either case, Jesus has given us all that is good in life; even love that makes it possible for us to love others.

Br. Robert L'Esperance

Too often Christians are thought of, to those outside the faith (and sometimes inside too), as people who reject, deny and condemn things, people and practices. If I thought that was what I was signing up for I would have run a mile! The faith I found was one of connection, justice, love and action. This is the faith the world should see in action throughout Advent. This is what we should be known for. Jesus was clear; we should be recognised as belonging to him by how we love.

Today I found joy in Sparkle Wednesday! I was thankful for my lovely student nurse and I felt helpless at how much I want to achieve before Christmas Day.

Scripture

I give you a new commandment, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”

John 13:34-35

The 19th

Go peaceful
in gentleness
through the violence of these days.
Give freely.
Show tenderness
in all your ways.

Through darkness,
in troubled times
let holiness be your aim.
Seek wisdom.
Let faithfulness
burn like a flame.

God speed you!
God lead you,
and keep you wrapped around His heart!
May you be known by love.

Be righteous.
Speak truthfully
in a world of greed and lies.
Show kindness.
See everyone
through heaven’s eyes.

God hold you,
enfold you,
and keep you wrapped around His heart.
May you be known by love.

Paul Field

Kindness, compassion and gentleness; I can't think of three more attractive qualities in the people I enjoy to spend time with. We can never have enough of these things. What greater reputation could we have than to be known by love? Let Christmas ignite our compassion, our hospitality. Open our hearts and doors.

Today I found joy in my job, was thankful for my bed and felt helpless over the future of the NHS.

Scripture

Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Act 4 - 999

There wasn't much time today for reaching out to folk outside of our little family, but the act did give us chance to think about who we can help and how we can help them. We don't have much time - working and studying sees to that - and we have very little spare money. How do we help people without time or money?
For me it's all about trying to be as open and gentle as I can be to those I meet throughout my day, receptive to their needs and what their struggles might be. A very busy work environment like mine can be unforgiving to someone having an off day, but we all have them. Each person we meet throughout our day has their own unseen or unknown struggles. Be gentle with people.

‘A new command I give you: love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.’ (John 13:34–35 NIV)

Prayer

What would I pray for the world? For patience, for gentleness, for empathy and for resilience.
Amen.