Friday, March 13th

It’s easy to get overwhelmed with all the news recently. Speaking to God as the psalmist did is a way to focus and steady ourselves. What does God say in return? That is the topic of Our selection today, from the Church of England. You can subscribe to their series here.

Psalm 69.1-3,15-16
Save me, O God,
    for the waters have come up to my neck.
I sink in deep mire,
    where there is no foothold;
I have come into deep waters,
    and the flood sweeps over me.
I am weary with my crying;
    my throat is parched.
My eyes grow dim
    with waiting for my God.

15 Do not let the flood sweep over me,
    or the deep swallow me up,
    or the Pit close its mouth over me.
16 Answer me, O Lord, for your steadfast love is good;
    according to your abundant mercy, turn to me.

Reflection
As we become more aware of the effects of climate change – rising temperatures and sea levels, flooding and droughts – it’s easy to become overwhelmed. Hopelessness and fear can set in.

We may feel afraid for ourselves, or for future generations. We may feel guilt that we are safe while those who live in other parts of the world suffer. But God is good, his love steadfast. And, by persevering in prayer and action, we can make a difference.

Prayer for the week
I heard the voice of Jesus say,
“Behold, I freely give
the living water; thirsty one,
stoop down and drink, and live.”
I came to Jesus, and I drank
of that life-giving stream;
my thirst was quenched, my soul revived,
and now I live in him.


from “I heard the voice of Jesus say”,
by Horatius Bonar (
1808-1889)