Jesus, the man of stories. 5–11 March 2006

The readings and thoughts in this series are adapted from the book ‘The Way of Love’ by Brother Ramon SSF, illustrated by Molly Dowell, which is now out of print. You are invited to set aside a regular time during Lent to consider them. Begin with quietness, then read the passage slowly as many times as you find helpful, look at the thoughts here and spend time in openness before God. You may like to include the suggested intercession topics as well

INTERCESSIONS

This week you might like to pray for the storytellers and preachers at St Matthew’s. Pray that they will walk closely with God so that their words and stories reflect his love or convey his challenge.

SUNDAY 5. Luke 15:11-32 Enfolded in love

In his love he clothes us,
enfolds and embraces us;
that tender love completely surrounds us,
never to leave us. Julian of Norwich

Let God hold you to his heart. Don’t be afraid to weep, to sing, to be silent. If your parents/children are around, visit or write to them and let God melt any coldness.

MONDAY 6. Luke 10:25–37 My neighbour is humankind

Thoughts to consider

  1. I should see the image and love of God in every needy person
  2. My believing, feeling and doing should move in harmony
  3. Talk, committees, liturgy and ritual cannot be a substitute for the basic, simple, helping hand to those nearest to me.
  4. Since I am human nothing that is human should be alien to me. Ask: Who can I reach out in friendship to this week?

TUESDAY 7. Matthew 13:44–46 The thrill of discovery

These stories portray something of the Gospel as an adventurous and precious quality of life.

Dear and precious Lord,
There are times when we are occupied in our daily, wearying tasks, not expecting to stumble upon hidden treasure; there are times when we are tired with our searching, longing, yearning for forgiveness, for healing, for peace;
Then you confront us with your loving presence, you offer us relief from our burdens, peace for our anxieties, healing for our sickness, and the treasure of your love.
When such moments come, let us recognise them, surrender all else, so that you may reign in the most shrine of our hearts—for then we shall possess that pearl of greatest price.
Amen

WEDNESDAY 8. Matthew 18:23—35 Forgive as you are forgiven

Thoughts to consider:

Do I bear a grudge
withhold forgiveness
or even perpetrate malice against another human being?
Do I nurse a grievance
smoulder an offence
or allow the roots of bitterness to reach deep into my soul from an old injury against me?
God’s grace can enable me not only to be a forgiven sinner,
but a forgiving sinner to all around.
Ask God

THURSDAY 9. Luke 12:13–31 Eat, drink and be merry

Lord Jesus, man of simplicity and integrity:
You were born in poverty and lived in simplicity;
you worked with your hands and shared everything you possessed.
I am relatively poor in comparison with the wealthy of this world—let me always be thankful that I have not been tempted by great wealth and luxury;
I am relatively rich in comparison with most people in the world—let me share not only my abundance, but give sacrificially for the alleviation of the world’s ills, and so follow in the pattern of your footsteps.
Amen

FRIDAY 10. Luke 6:46–49 Secure foundations

As you go about today note building structures and their foundations, especially if new construction is taking place. At the end of the day ask ‘Is the foundation of my life firmly rooted in Christ? What is the quality of the superstructure erected on that foundation?’

SATURDAY 11. Luke 14:15–24 Come for everything is ready

Look at the excuses in the parable and ask if they are also yours:

‘I have bought a piece of land’—property, wealth, investments

‘I have bought 5 yoke of oxen’—ambition, avarice, technological expertise, power and influence over others, reputation, commercial exploitation

‘I have just been married’—relationships, success, comfort, domestic ease.

All of these may be legitimate and may glorify God. But used as excuses to keep God at bay they can become betrayals of love and lead to emptiness.

COMING UP

Next week: Jesus, the man of wonders.

Sunday 12 March at St Matthew’s:

10.30 Morning Worship with a sermon

6.30 Holy Communion and reflection on The man who stilled the storm

Readings: Psalm 107:23–30 and Mark 4:35–41