Introduction
This weeks’ Gospel reading speaks of Jesus bringing light to those who are suffering and calling people to repentance because of the imminence of the kingdom of heaven. In this context, how can we play a part in enabling the light of Christ to shine in different places? What is repentance? How does it enable the light of Christ to shine that people may know that the kingdom is near?
Context
- Dozens die as Turkish cargo jet hits homes.
- A TV listing promoting Donald Trump's inauguration goes viral.
- Power-sharing collapses in Northern Ireland.
- Theresa May urged by climate change scientists to pressure Donald Trump on global warming.
Reflection
Central to the Gospel reading is the message that Jesus brings light to those whose lives are darkened by suffering. However, that can simply be a platitude if it is not approached with care. Jesus brought light by his physical presence and by his interaction with living individuals. Inevitably that interaction was limited. The risen Christ is less limited by physical boundaries and distance. But it is up to his followers to enable his light to shine. This might be through conversation, or through prayer.
Many people are concerned about the impact on the world of the election of Donald Trump as president of the USA. As Christians, we are called to pray for this situation, and to share our faith that Jesus (God) can be active even in the most unlikely situations.
The air crash in Kyrgystan has caused great suffering, both to the families of those whose loved ones have been killed and to the wider community. Kyrgystan is the second poorest country in central Asia – over 30% of its population live in poverty. Through the prayers of people around the world, the light of the kingdom will shine bringing comfort and hope.
Once again Northern Ireland is facing a period of uncertainty and political instability. There are concerns for the present and apprehensions for the future. In such times the news that ‘the kingdom is near’ is a message that brings comfort and strength. It enables people to carry on and gives a beaming light of hope for the days ahead.
Climate change is being accelerated by human-made greenhouse gases. Some of this is caused by domestic usage. Everything from furniture to computers, from clothes to carpets, consumes energy when it is produced and transported. Energy production and consumption causes carbon emissions to be released. These emissions – greenhouse gases – play a part in bringing about climate change. Jesus preached a message of repentance because the kingdom is near. Repentance is not simply an act of regret for the past, but involves actively turning away from a particular type of ‘wrong’ behaviour, and turning towards a new and better way. In this way the kingdom is brought nearer. While it is important that climate change is addressed globally, it must also be addressed personally. In the context of repentance, we should review our own actions as individuals and churches. For example, we can work to reduce our ‘carbon footprint’.
Prayer
This is a simple act of intercession on the theme of the light of Christ shining in the darkness. Each bidding could be accompanied by the lighting of a candle. The final section/prayer could be printed on cards and given to people – perhaps with a candle or tealight (see Action below) – for use during the week.
On those in darkness because of poverty and economic difficulties:
may the light of Christ bring hope of the kingdom.
On those in the darkness of fear and apprehension for the future or the present:
may the light of Christ bring hope of the kingdom.
On those in the darkness of pain and grief:
may the light of Christ bring hope of the kingdom.
On those in the darkness of loneliness and isolation:
may the light of Christ bring hope of the kingdom.
On those in darkness because of what they have done, or what others have done to them:
may the light of Christ bring hope of the kingdom.
Loving Lord,
may your light of hope shine upon our world;
your light of love shine upon our community,
and your light of peace shine upon our lives.
In your name we pray.
Amen
Questions
- How close does the kingdom of heaven feel?
- Are there ways in which light can be brought to those suffering in darkness in your community?
Action
Distribute tealights to everybody. Invite them to give it to someone they know who is going through a time of darkness at present. If appropriate, make prayer cards to accompany the lights (see Prayer above).
Young people
- What sort of attitudes do you find obstructive to the coming of the kingdom?
- Where do you see a need for repentance?
Stuart Wild is a Methodist minister in inner city Manchester.
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