July 1st

The wearing of face masks has become a huge source of controversy in America.  Listening to a TV interview in which protests about masks seemed to get ever more outlandish, I couldn’t bear it anymore so I walked away: We should focus on what is good, shouldn’t we?

Whatever is true, whatever is honourable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things (Philippians 4:8).

Following Paul’s advice can help us guard against the risk of slipping into cynicism, bitterness, despondency.

That said though, when the news makes us uncomfortable or angry; do we always discern when to adjust our focus, and when instead we need to respond with love and action?

May we know God’s help as we seek to live the life we are called to:

May God bless you with discomfort at easy answers,
Half-truths, superficial relationships,
So that you will live deep within your heart.

May God bless you with anger at injustice,
Oppression and exploitation of people,
So that you will work for justice, equity and peace.

May God bless you with tears to shed for those who suffer from pain,
Rejection, starvation and war,
So that you will reach out your hand to comfort them and change their pain to joy.

And may God bless you with the foolishness to think that you can make a difference in the world,
So that you will do the things which others tell you cannot be done.

(From “A World of Blessing”, Ed. Geoffrey Duncan)

Ruth Allen