The world can be a confusing and unsettling place, especially with technology at our fingertips and 24/7 news. Making sense of it all can take its toll on our inner life. In this context, preserving our mental health is essential.
Here’s some strategies that work for me:
Limit your news consumption. Constant exposure to distressing news can lead to anxiety and stress. Set aside specific times to check the news and avoid it during the rest of the day. Consider turning off news notifications on your devices.
Choose reliable news sources. Verify the credibility of the news sources you follow and ask questions, such as, why is this person saying a certain thing, for example. This can reduce fear and uncertainty.
Focus on what you can control. It’s easy to feel powerless in the face of global crises. Concentrate on actions you can take in your own life, like supporting local charities, volunteering, or making environmentally conscious choices.
Establish a daily routine to bring stability and predictability. Regular sleep patterns, exercise, and work schedules can all help you maintain a sense of normality. Do what works for you.
Talk to people. Human connection is vital for mental wellbeing. Even when you can’t meet in person, stay connected with friends and family through phone calls, video chats, or online social groups. Sharing your feelings and experiences can be comforting. Smile at people and talk to strangers.
Develop the art of self-care. Dedicate time to activities that help you relax and unwind. Exercise, meditation, deep breathing, and hobbies can all reduce stress and improve your mood.
Seek help. If you find yourself struggling to cope with the constant stream of negative news, don’t hesitate to reach out for professional help. A therapist or counsellor can provide valuable guidance and support.
Stay informed, but not obsessed. Whilst staying informed is important, obsessing over the news can lead to information overload and increased anxiety. Set boundaries and avoid overconsumption.
Remember, preserving your mental health is a priority, it’s okay to take breaks from the news and practice self-compassion. By implementing these strategies, you can better navigate a world of bad news while maintaining your mental wellbeing.
Psalm 23 is a cherished Bible passage found in the Old Testament, often referred to as the Shepherd’s Psalm. Attributed traditionally to King David, it captures the essence of God’s care and provision for his people. The psalm paints a vivid picture of God as a loving and attentive shepherd, guiding and protecting his flock.
The imagery used is rich with pastoral scenes, evoking a sense of tranquillity and security. “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want,” begins the psalm, establishing a profound sense of trust and dependency on God’s providence. This opening line sets the tone for the entire passage, conveying the idea that with God as our shepherd, we lack nothing.
The imagery continues with descriptions of green pastures and still waters, symbolising nourishment, rest, and refreshment for the soul. Even in the midst of life’s trials and challenges, the psalmist finds comfort in God’s presence, stating, “Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.”
The psalm concludes with a declaration of faith and assurance in God’s goodness and mercy, affirming that his care will follow his people all the days of their lives. It’s a timeless expression of trust in God’s guidance and provision, offering solace and strength to countless believers throughout history.
Psalm 23 encapsulates the essence of God’s unwavering love and care for his people, providing a source of comfort and reassurance in every season of life. Let’s reflect on these truths during the coming week.
1 John 3:1-7 is one of today’s Lectionary readings, it offers a robust reminder of God’s love for us and how it ought to shape our conduct. It’s like a warm hug from an affirming friend, reassuring us about the incredible love that God has for us and how it should shape our lives.
John starts by emphatically asserting our status as beloved of God. It’s not a mere nicety, it’s a foundational truth. He addresses us as ‘beloved’, underlining our significance and value in the eyes of God.
Moving on, John delineates our familial relationship with God. We’re not merely acquaintances; we’re reckoned as God’s offspring. This family tie positions us within a privileged circle, under the care and provision of our heavenly parent.
However, there’s a sobering aspect to this family relationship. Despite our esteemed status, our outward appearance might not always reflect it. We’re a work in progress, subject to ongoing refinement.
The crux of John’s message lies in the behavioural implications of our divine lineage. Our conduct should be congruent with our heavenly pedigree. In other words, we’re expected to be Christlike, a reminder to uphold the family name with dignity.
John doesn’t suggest perfection; he acknowledges the inevitability of human fallibility. Nonetheless, he exhorts us to strive towards a life that honours God and exemplifies love towards others.
This passage serves as a stern, yet nurturing admonition; emphasising God’s love for us, our privileged status as his offspring, and the consequent moral imperative to conduct ourselves accordingly.
The Crucifixion must have traumatised Jesus’ disciples and followers, even though he’d tried to prepare them for it, not just once but repeatedly. They failed to realise the full significance of his words and so ‘the penny didn’t drop!’
The bottom had fallen out of their world; they were defeated and downcast, devastated and discouraged.
Significantly, the Risen Jesus came alongside two followers walking on the road to Emmaus. But they were kept from recognising him. The original Greek here uses what’s known as a ‘divine passive’, with God as the implied subject. It’s as if God intentionally blinded their eyes until the moment of revelation, that moment when Jesus broke bread with them. He asked them, ‘What are you discussing together as you walk along?’
They stood still, their faces downcast. One of them, named Cleopas, asked him, ‘Are you the only one visiting Jerusalem who does not know the things that have happened there in these days?’ ‘What things?’ he asked. ‘About Jesus of Nazareth,’ they replied. ‘He was a prophet, powerful in word and deed before God and all the people. The chief priests and our rulers handed him over to be sentenced to death, and they crucified him; but we had hoped that he was the one who was going to redeem Israel.
No wonder they were surprised that someone hadn’t heard. The Romans conducted crucifixions at major public crossroads to make examples of their victims and warn others against revolt. It really was quite unthinkable to these disciples that a Passover pilgrim wouldn’t have heard about Jesus’ crucifixion.
All their expectations had been dashed, even if they misunderstood or hadn’t fully comprehended the nature of Jesus’ purpose and ministry. The phrase ‘we had hoped’ speaks volumes about their feelings, but it’s also a Messianic reference; his coming to save Israel, the message of Palm Sunday hadn’t taken root in their hearts. One version says they stopped short, sadness written across their faces.
And what is more, it is the third day since all this took place. In addition, some of our women amazed us. They went to the tomb early this morning but didn’t find his body. They came and told us that they had seen a vision of angels, who said he was alive. Then some of our companions went to the tomb and found it just as the women had said, but they did not see Jesus.
These verses help us to understand their confusion and disorientation; they were struggling to make sense of it. Wanting to believe the reports, yet doubting in their hearts.
He said to them, ‘How foolish you are, and how slow to believe all that the prophets have spoken! Did not the Messiah have to suffer these things and then enter his glory?’ And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself.
Just imagine what it must have been like to have Jesus himself explain the scriptures? But ultimately the road TO Emmaus is the road of confusion, doubt, and weakness.
As they approached the village to which they were going, Jesus continued on as if he were going further. But they urged him strongly, ‘Stay with us, for it is nearly evening; the day is almost over.’ So he went in to stay with them.
Then comes the moment of insight, the moment of clarity, the moment of recognition; here is such a wonderful moment of recognition and insight: When he was at the table with them, he took bread, gave thanks, broke it and began to give it to them. Then their eyes were opened and they recognised him, and he disappeared from their sight. They asked each other, ‘Were not our hearts burning within us while he talked with us on the road and opened the Scriptures to us?’
Suddenly they received new energy from somewhere: They got up and returned at once to Jerusalem. There they found the Eleven and those with them, assembled together and saying, ‘It is true! The Lord has risen and has appeared to Simon.’
They initially failed to recognize him, but as he stayed and broke bread with them the truth dawned, and they realised they would never ‘walk alone’ again.
The disciples were changed from being defeated and downcast, devastated and discouraged, to being confident in their Saviour and Lord. They faced the future with hope and returned to Jerusalem with a new spring in their step because they were not walking alone.
Good Friday and Easter prove that he knows the worst about us, yet still loves us, enough to die for us, and he’s with us forever in the journey of life. Moments we share with each other in worship, fellowship and eating are so important. The Last Supper in the upper room was a highly significant occasion, as well as being a tremendously poignant one.
As Christians meet together in worship, fellowship and yes, feasting, we’re sharing something divine. The Risen Christ comes and blesses us with his presence: While they were still talking about this, Jesus himself stood among them and said to them, ‘Peace be with you.’
What incredible moments these must have been as they gathered in the presence of the Risen Lord; such moments of collective insight and clarity, everything falling into place, especially after Jesus opened up the Hebrew Scriptures to them.
In contrast to the road TO Emmaus, the Road FROM Emmaus is the road of clarity, insight, energy, and peace. It’s the way of peace and the presence of Jesus.
Those disciples must have been so weary after their long journey, travelling home always seems longer and harder when the heart and emotions are burdened. But they were still able to offer hospitality though, and I’m sure it was genuine.
How important it is for us to come alongside others on their journey through life and offer love, support and hospitality. None of us fully know what the other person is feeling or going through, the pain and the daily struggles.
Brother, sister, let me serve you, Let me be as Christ to you. Pray that I may have the grace to let you be my servant, too.
It can be very moving when we dedicate ourselves to being with each other on life’s sometimes difficult journey, but also sharing the joys as well. Walking with each other and walking with Jesus.
I know thee who thou art, And what thy healing name; For when my fainting heart The burden nigh o’ercame, I saw thy footprints on my road Where lately passed the Son of God.
Thy name is joined with mine By every human tie, And my new name is thine, A child of God am I; And never more alone, since thou Art on the road beside me now.
Beside thee as I walk, I will delight in thee, In sweet communion talk Of all thou art to me; The beauty of thy face behold And know thy mercies manifold.
Let nothing draw me back Or turn my heart from thee, But by the Calvary track Bring me at last to see The courts of God, that city fair, And find my name is written there.
We all know the value of drinking plenty of water, but equally we don’t always get around to doing it. That was certainly the case for me, but since retiring I’m making a concerted effort to look after myself, especially with three young children to care for.
A few years ago, I started to drink at least five glasses of water a day (one as soon as I wake up). It’s made easier because we have one of those convenient cold-water dispensers on our fridge. I also drink herbal tea in addition to my regular drinks and restrict coffee to one a day no later than 2.00 pm if possible.
I have to say I feel much better as a result. Keeping hydrated is so essential and has many health benefits, both physical and mental. Any downsides? Not really, although I do have to go to the toilet more often!
This article is extremely helpful, along with many other you can find with Google.
Imagine you meet someone called Jack and, because of their chosen clothes and style, you’re not sure of their gender identity. Imagine then having speak to another person about them. In that instance, knowing their personal pronouns will enable you to refer to them correctly, not make an idiot of yourself, and save embarrassment all round.
Indicating your personal pronouns is an act of courtesy. Respecting someone’s personal pronouns is an act of thoughtfulness. No one is forcing it on you or anyone else. It’s nothing to get annoyed about. It’s about being better human beings, understanding of others.
Acts 10:34-43 captures a key moment in the early Christian church, depicting Peter’s realisation of the universality of God’s message and the inclusion of Gentiles in the Christian faith. This passage marks a significant shift in the understanding of God’s plan of salvation.
In these verses, Peter, who was a devout Jew and one of Jesus’ disciples, addresses a Gentile audience, specifically Cornelius, a Roman centurion. Peter begins by acknowledging that God shows no partiality, meaning that his love and salvation are not limited to any particular group or ethnicity. This revelation challenges the traditional Jewish understanding that salvation was exclusive to the Jewish people.
Peter then proceeds to proclaim the core message of Christianity: the gospel of Jesus Christ. He emphasises that Jesus is Lord of all, regardless of nationality or background. Peter recounts the ministry of Jesus, highlighting his baptism by John the Baptist, his anointing with the Holy Spirit, and his acts of healing and liberation. This serves to establish Jesus’ authority and credentials as the Messiah.
Peter also emphasises Jesus’ death and resurrection, declaring that Jesus was crucified, but God raised him from the dead on the third day. This central tenet of Christianity underscores the power of God over death and sin, offering hope and salvation to all who believe.
Moreover, Peter testifies to the eyewitness accounts of Jesus’ ministry and resurrection, affirming the reliability of the Christian message. He emphasises that Jesus commanded his disciples to preach and bear witness to him, thus validating their role as messengers of the gospel.
Furthermore, Peter highlights the role of Jesus as the appointed judge of the living and the dead, underscoring the accountability of all people before God. He stresses that through faith in Jesus, forgiveness of sins is available to everyone who believes in him.
This passage concludes with Peter affirming the prophetic testimony concerning Jesus, stating that all who believe in him receive forgiveness of sins through his name. Here, Peter extends the invitation to salvation to his Gentile audience, emphasising that faith in Jesus is the means by which all people can experience reconciliation with God.
Acts 10:34-43 is a turning point in the Book of Acts, illustrating the expansion of the Christian message beyond its Jewish origins and the inclusion of Gentiles in the community of believers. It serves as a foundational text for understanding the universal scope of God’s redemptive plan through Jesus Christ.
Thought: Live as Easter people in a Good Friday world.
Today is Holy Saturday, not Easter Saturday. Easter starts with the resurrection of Jesus when darkness is turned to light. In stillness, earth awaits the resurrection.
Psalm 22 is a poignant and emotive psalm attributed to King David and often considered one of the Messianic Psalms, with Christian interpreters seeing in it prophetic references to the suffering and crucifixion of Jesus Christ.
The psalm begins with a cry of anguish, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” These words are familiar to Christians as they are echoed by Jesus on the cross in the New Testament. The psalmist expresses feelings of abandonment and distress, yet also maintains trust in God’s faithfulness.
Throughout the psalm, there’s a vivid description of the psalmist’s suffering, with imagery of being surrounded by enemies, mocked and scorned by onlookers, and physically afflicted. Despite the intense suffering described, the psalmist clings to the hope of God’s deliverance, expressing confidence in God’s power to save.
The psalm shifts towards praise and thanksgiving as the psalmist anticipates God’s response to their cries. There’s a sense of victory and vindication as the psalmist declares that God hasn’t despised or scorned their affliction, but rather hears their cries and responds with deliverance.
In the final verses, the psalmist calls on future generations to praise God for His faithfulness and deliverance. They envision a time when all nations will worship and acknowledge God’s sovereignty.
Interpretations of Psalm 22 vary across religious traditions. For Christians, the psalm is often seen as foreshadowing the suffering and death of Jesus Christ, with many phrases and images in the psalm being seen as directly fulfilled in the events of Christ’s crucifixion. In Jewish tradition, Psalm 22 is recited during times of distress and is seen as a prayer for deliverance and redemption.
Overall, Psalm 22 is a powerful expression of faith in the midst of suffering, highlighting the tension between feelings of abandonment and trust in God’s faithfulness. It serves as a reminder that even in the darkest moments, God is present and working towards redemption and deliverance.
On this Good Friday we’re reminded that Christ spoke the first words of this psalm, and possible recited it all, on the Cross. It starts with darkness and despair, yet ends in light and hope. In abandonment and death we look forward to companionship and new life on Easter Sunday.
John 13:1-17 is a profound passage that depicts Jesus’ final meal with his disciples before his crucifixion. It’s the beginning of the ‘Farewell Discourse’ in John’s Gospel, where Jesus prepares his followers for his impending departure.
The scene is set during the Passover Feast. Jesus, fully aware of his divine authority and the events about to unfold, chooses to perform a humble act of service: He washes his disciples’ feet. This was a task typically reserved for the lowest servant, yet here the Master kneels before his followers. It’s a powerful act of love and a reversal of social norms.
When Peter resists, Jesus insists, explaining that the washing is necessary for Peter to share in Jesus’ life and mission. After completing the task, Jesus returns to his place and addresses his disciples. He explains that he’s set an example for them. Just as he, their Lord and Teacher, has washed their feet, so they should wash one another’s feet. It’s a lesson in humility and service, emphasising that leadership in the Kingdom of God is marked not by dominance, but by loving service.
The passage also touches on themes of cleanliness and preparation. While the physical act of washing is symbolic, it points to the spiritual cleansing necessary for fellowship with Christ. Jesus’ actions prefigure his ultimate service and sacrifice on the cross, where he will offer himself for the cleansing of humankind’s sin.
On this Maundy Thursday, we’re called to emulate Jesus’ humility and servanthood, transforming our lives, relationships, and attitudes towards others.
It’s exciting to be in a crowd, but it can also be very frightening. The mood of a crowd can rapidly change, the dynamic of the mob can quickly take over. Who knows what the crowd will do next, especially if its expectations are not met?
The crowds surrounding Jesus as he rode into Jerusalem were no different. The emotions and excitement were reaching fever pitch, and the conditions were right for the whole thing to turn nasty.
You can read the story of the first Palm Sunday in Luke 19:28-44.
There would have been thousands of hot, excited, sweaty people all wanting to see Jesus; all wanting to know who he was, all wanting to see what he would do.
Jesus approaches and enters Jerusalem in the full knowledge that both the religious and political leaders were feeling threatened by his teaching and ministry, and that the crowd could easily turn if he didn’t fulfil their expectations and hopes.
The first Palm Sunday was a dramatic and hugely significant day in the life and ministry of Jesus. Prior to this, Jesus had resolutely set his face towards Jerusalem, to very publicly announce the coming of his kingdom.
He carefully chose a time when the people would be gathered in Jerusalem, and he chose a way of proclaiming his kingdom that was unmistakable.
But, as Jesus approached Jerusalem, he wept over it: If you, even you, had only recognised on this day the things that make for peace! But now they are hidden from your eyes.
These weren’t the words of a human king, but rather the words of divine Saviour whose heart broke because of the spiritual and moral blindness of the people. He’d come to bring true peace, but they didn’t want it.
The crowd in Jerusalem thought they understood as they cheered, shouted, waved, and threw palm branches, but completely misunderstood Jesus’ identity.
They were full of nationalistic fervour and failed to recognise the true nature of Jesus’ kingship. Palms had been a symbol of Jewish nationalism from the time of the Maccabees and appeared on Jewish coins during their revolutionary struggle against the Romans, and now they were oppressed by them.
Jesus showed the people his true identity by riding on a donkey; a sign, according to the Old Testament, of the Messiah coming in peace. The people expected the Messiah to bring victory by force, but Jesus came to conquer by the Cross. The way of Jesus is not one of hatred, force or violence, rather it’s the way of sacrificial love.
The praise and adulation of the crowd was not the glory Jesus wanted, his glory was to come through self-sacrifice and suffering.
On this Palm Sunday, may we make our own decision to set our face towards Jerusalem; resolving to go God’s way, despite the expectations of the crowds, and live like Jesus.
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