By Col Ritson, CASAI
Reading: Numbers 6 v. 24 – 26
‘The Lord bless and keep you’
Notes:
It is a well known blessing which reminds us that God wants great things for us especially the gift of Peace.
I find this verse encouraging to know that God doesn’t want us to suffer but desires good things for us….
In my ministry (CASAI) supporting survivors of sexual abuse, I am always looking for light in darkness and peace despite the chaos and worries of life so as to encourage those who struggle .
This is crucial, so I can be real and offer tangible and attainable hope, encouragement and empathy to those who feel the light has gone out .
Many of the women think of peace as something in the future…
When I’m better, when my abuser is dead, when I can go to church again, and sadly only when I’m in heaven.
A stark reality in my work is some women take drastic measures for peace.
Some feel that abuse is their fault or heartbreakingly that God sent it as a punishment or a lesson.
I believe God is with us in pain and with compassion wants to be the light of our hearts and our world.
I believe Jesus was born in a stable to show us that joy and peace can be found, even when people want to kill you (King Herod), even if your home doesn’t belong to you and sometimes you don’t get the gifts you want (myhrr?)
Life is tough and some parents know giving everything to their child isn’t real love…
But showing them the way to survive…
And God, as a healthy parent never hurts us deliberately.
Wonder:
What gives you peace in your life ?
Have you ever felt peace in the middle of distressing times?
Who do you look to for inspiration if your faith is flagging?
Prayer:
Loving hopeful God
Thank you for being with us when the sun doesn’t shine
when the power goes off without notice
When friends leave us in the lurch or dump us by text
When grief feels too much
When abuse steals away all dignity
You are the light of the world and a permanent extension when our heart needs charging
Stay with us in the world you gave us which needs much peace.
Amen