Daily Reading: 14 July

(from www.christianaid.org.uk)

Hope and liberation

Something to read

By the tender mercy of our God, the dawn from on high will break upon us, to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace.

- Luke 1: 78-79, from full reading Luke 1:57-80.

Something to think about

Zechariah has been silent for months, probably nine months, and these are his first words by the inspiration and infilling of the Holy Spirit. Perhaps taking the baby boy John in his arms he gazes at the child while pouring forth this charismatic utterance.

Like Mary’s song, Zechariah’s prophecy brings words of hope and liberation – not just for the circumstances of his day but even for us now as we long for just such mercy, light and peace in places of conflict and oppression today.

Something to do

Watch and join Bishop Parade recite his 28-word prayer for peace

Something to pray

Thank you for your tender mercy, God

may dawn from on high break upon us,

give light to those who sit in darkness

and in the shadow of death caused by conflict,

guide all our feet into the way of peace.

Amen.

Today's reading is provided by Wendy Lloyd, faith communications coordinator for Christian Aid.