Daily Reading: 11 February

(from www.christianaid.org.uk)

Something to read

For God is a God not of disorder but of peace.

- 1 Corinthians 14:33, from full reading 1 Corinthians 14:26-40.

Something to think about

This verse takes us back to Genesis and the very beginning, when God created the world and brought order and rhythm out of the chaos – the void or the emptiness.

It also resonates with our deepest desire for understanding and security. We are all very fond of routine, of knowing what is coming next. We are often disturbed by new experiences where we do not understand the language or know what rules to follow.

Paul encourages the church in Corinth to worship in an orderly manner – not to cut across each other, not to speak in tongues unless there are people there to interpret. I sometimes wonder whether our need for order limits our ability to worship and reflect on God’s mystery.

God’s peace goes deeper than order and routine; it touches us in the darkest of places and stills our hearts.

Something to do

Read a newspaper, paying particular attention to individuals and communities facing chaos – refugees, wars, natural disasters. Do some research to learn something new about one of these situations to inform your prayers and action.

Something to pray

We give you praise, Lord, for the rhythm and beauty of your creation around us. We marvel at your greatness and glory revealed in the winter flowers and skies. We ask that you grant your peace to those living in situations of upheaval and chaos, and that you give us voices to speak out against the injustice and prejudice which often permeate the stories shared. Make us bearers of peace, your deepest peace.

Anna Jane Evans is the former North Wales Regional Co-ordinator for Christian Aid.  She is also a voluntary minister with the Presbyterian Church of Wales with pastoral care for a church in Penmaenmawr.