Day 1
This was the first day walking and I would like to thank all those who made it memorable. I think it is a record for the number of different parishes we have visited in one day, four in all. It has also been helpful to use the Thy Kingdom Come liturgy for the first time. It is good to have a sense of joining in prayer with brothers and sisters around the world.
I always find it remarkable that God shows us how we are connected in his body across the globe. At Evening Prayer, we sang one of my favourite hymns, The Day Thou Gavest Lord is Ended. It reminds us that prayer rolls around the world. As one part of the Church goes to sleep another is waking.
As I am so near to home, I popped into my house for a shower. I checked my email and found one from a Baptist pastor friend in the UK. She had lost my cell phone number, could I send it? I did so and received an almost instant response. Her son has committed a financial crime and he is due to be sentenced tomorrow. His Mom worked in prison ministry for many years and, as he will certainly go to prison, she needed to talk.
The body of Christ is connected by the Holy Spirit. When one part is hurting another part feels it. I have known my friend’s son since he was five, 30 years ago. He suffers from a number of chronic illnesses and it is hard to think of him going to prison for about five years. He has pleaded guilty to his crime and recognizes that the law will take its course. Please pray for these two people and the others in their family. It is also encouraging to know that the congregation my friend serves is supporting her through this time. The body of Christ at its best loves people through their tribulation. The day God has given us is ended. As darkness rolls onward into light let’s remember all who are in prison this night.
+David