The news today has been of violence in Northern Ireland, and the chief constable was interviewed.  Matt Baggott was a friend of many small Baptist churches in Leciestershire.  He preached at D+1 and he came to speak at 'Thing in a Pub' in Dibley.  He is a hardworking police officer who always brings his faith into his work.  I am sure he prays with and for both Catholics and Protestants in NI.

I thought he looked tired when I saw him on TV.  The seriousness of his task, and his commitment to do it well, will take their toll.  NI is blessed to have him; I pray he will be given wisdom and courage for the task ahead and that he and his family will be able to enjoy the love of the many wonderful people in that land.

This morning I'm playing 'hunt the hymn' for the service built around Acts 15.  I found this one, which I probably won't use, but seemed to speak into a wider context where churches are full of people who are hurt and who cause hurt, where real life takes its toll and where, despite or through it all, God chooses to work.  I like the honesty.

Lord, you have seen your church's needs;
our clamour you have heard:
at every point make known your mind;
apply to us your word.

When leaders argue, workers fail,
and faithful saints lose heart,
grant to us all your peace, your strength;
your love to us impart.

When illness strikes or loss invades
or ranks are thinned by death,
then come among us with new hope
and with reviving breath.

When Christians are in rival groups
and churches torn by strife,
make us repent, be reconciled,
and so restored to life.

We plead, O Christ, that when you come
you will find faith on earth;
one church awakened by one truth,
alive by one new birth.

Christopher Idle from Philippians 1 and 2 © Christopher Idle/Jubilate Hymns Ltd CM

Last night's service included this hymn, which seemed to speak into the world we inhabit...

The one who longs to make us whole

Is waiting to embrace

Our broken lives, so we can know

The power of healing grace.

God's love surrounds our suffering,

And keeps us through the night;

God helps us bear our deep despair

Till we see morning light.

The one who saves us from ourselves

Is waiting to release

Our hearts from chains of self-reproach

And failure to find peace.

When harmful habits leave us bruised,

Distraught by inner pain,

God comes to us through trusted friends,

And help us hope again.

The one who understands our need

Accepts us as we are;

And, like a loved one, welcomes us

When we have wandered far.

God never says we come too late

To be forgiven, free

But promises we can become

The self we're meant to be.

Edith Sinclair Downing, (c) Edith Sinclair Downing

Sources: Church Hymnary (4th Ed) or Hymns of Glory, Songs of Praise

DCM; set tune (CH4) Third Mode Melody, Tallis