Daily Reading: 15 February

(from www.christianaid.org.uk)

Laughter and love

Something to read

their delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law they meditate day and night. They are like trees planted by streams of water, which yield their fruit in its season,  and their leaves do not wither.’

- Psalm 1:2-3, from full reading Psalm 1.

Something to think about

I’m sure we can all think of someone we know, or have known who fits this description:  people whose lives have been lived close to God – who seem to be in touch with him, who have a serenity of soul which is attractive and special.

In my experience, those people are also the most actively aware of the world around them. Their finger is on the pulse of political and world affairs, their prayers are focussed on the needs of those around them. Their immediate and world-wide neighbours. More often than not, their prosperity isn’t worldly wealth but a deep-rooted faith and trust in God’s love.

I will never forget following one of Christian Aid’s partner staff, Sr Junia, through a maize field on a steep slope in Guatemala; she wanted to take us to the house of one of the poorest families in the area who were receiving help from one of Christian Aid’s partners. The corn was taller than she was and she got hopelessly lost – and it was only her loud laughter that led the way. In the end, it was another member of the community who came up to meet her who got us back on track. Her laughter is still in my ears.

Something to do

Get in touch with a friend whom you haven’t seen for a long time – catch up with their news and hold them in your prayers.  Then read one news story and pray for those involved.

Use our contemplativeWalking Humbly podcast this Lent to connect you with God and the world around you. Find out more.

Something to pray

God of joy, fill us with your laughter, help us to rest and place our full trust in your goodness and mercy. Thank you for all past and present friends who reflect your peace and goodness – and help us to live more closely to your side, and to love your more deeply each day. May our love be expressed in our daily struggle for justice and peace.

Today’s contributor is Anna Jane Evans, 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.