In our prayer times this week, we have been spending time with Jesus and watching his ministry, also reflecting on our own work for the Lord.

A line from each scripture will be read, followed by a pause for reflection. As you begin your time of prayer, ask the Holy Spirit to let these words speak afresh to you today.

Simeon took him in his arms and praised God, saying,

‘Master, now you are dismissing your servant in peace,

according to your word; for my eyes have seen your salvation.

She had heard about Jesus and came up behind him in the crowd and touched his cloak, for she said, ‘If I but touch his clothes, I will be made well.’

Then Jesus said to them, ‘Prophets are not without honour, except in their hometown and among their own kin, and in their own house.’

He called the twelve and began to send them out two by two and gave them authority over the unclean spirits.  He ordered them to take nothing for their journey except a staff; no bread, no bag, no money in their belts; but to wear sandals and not to put on two tunics.

Immediately the king sent a soldier of the guard with orders to bring John’s head. He went and beheaded him in the prison... When his disciples heard about it, they came and took his body and laid it in a tomb.

What most struck you as you heard these readings today?

As you recall your times of prayer during the past week, was there a time when you felt particularly close to the Lord? What was happening for you? Give thanks for this time.

Was there a time when did you felt distant from the Lord? What was the cause of this distance? Offer this moment to the Lord.

Now, in the Lord’s presence, consider the week ahead...

Offer your days with all your commitments, encounters and prayer spaces to him, inviting him to walk closely with you each day.

Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.

As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be

World without end

Amen