Reading, Reflection and Prayer

Lepers are excluded from the people of Israel. They can't worship, gather together or participate in the regular communal life of their society. One of them cries out to Jesus - is he willing and able to do anything?

Ruth loved Evensong - there are just two more in November - so do come to one if you are able and at lower risk from Covid. Simon Peter, when he the large catch of fish that comes in response to Jesus' saying 'let down your nets' is struck by his unworthiness to be in Jesus' presence.

We recommend the novel 'The Help' as a good story and interesting social commentary (I know, many of you read this years ago...). We notice how Jesus 'rebukes' a fever in Luke 4 and think about that. Also about his need to retreat and find solitude with his Heavenly Father and the importance of that.

The crowds recognize Jesus' authority when he teaches them. When he words turn out also to have power of evil spirits they are amazed.

The crowd in Jesus' hometown love it when he reads the scripture in Isaiah that talks about the coming Messiah and claims that this is now fulfilled. Their mood turns pretty quickly when he proclaims that his message won't take root there and that it will be like Elijah - whose impact was felt outside of Israel.

Richard and Ruth consider the different traditions surrounding halloween in the UK and the US. We consider the story of Jesus' temptation in the wilderness. What is it about the testing of our faith that is able to prove it and strengthen it.

We talk about the plans we have for the holiday season coming up and then dig into the geneaology of Jesus.

Ruth shares a picture she had about the life that running water brings to grey looking stones. We then read the story of John the Baptist, and think about repentance in terms of clearing out the dead wood that is necessary to allow the Holy Spirit's water to flow.

Richard and Ruth both really side with Jesus' parents when he goes missing on the trip to Jerusalem. Ruth would have been blaming him for getting lost just as much as Mary did!

The example of the prophetess Ana in the temple, whose life was dedicated to worship, fasting and prayer. An inspiration for us as we seek to place Jesus at the centre of our lives day by day.