I’m currently reading a book of Martin Luther King Jrs sermons. What’s struck me so far is the grace and love of God and humanity that permeates his writings, whilst never underestimating the hurt and pain of segregation and discrimination. Even over 40 years since his assassination, his words are powerful and potent, which sadly reflect the reality of modern life. Whilst much has been achieved, there is so so much prejudice and hatred that is aimed at anyone who in any way might be seen as ‘different’.

This is why the Matthew text has always been one that is challenging. Jesus, who we see as our model of love and the antithesis of any prejudice, seems to be denying a frantic mother’s request for healing for her daughter. This seems to totally contradict his radical teaching of love. Yet she counters him with clever argument and seems to change his mind. Perhaps this is a reminder that Jesus’ humanity was still evolving and real, whilst still alongside his divinity. We’re all formed by our backgrounds, but we can also change. Jesus here embodies this for us. And I love that it’s a clever and brave woman who does this though the use of words.

Sunday 20 August – 11^th Sunday after Trinity

10am: Sung Holy Communion-Revd Lizzie & Revd Kester-St. Mary’s

10.30am: Holy Communion with Hymns-Canon Paul Denyer-All Saints

The Week Ahead

Tuesday 22 August-3pm: All Saints Family Café: All Saints

Wednesday 23 August – 9am: Celtic Morning Prayer : All Saints

Thursday 24 August 10am Holy Communion: St Marys

3pm All Saints Family Café: All Saints

Saturday 26 August 12.00 – 2pm –Saturday Lunches: St Marys

Sunday 27 August

8.00 – Holy Communion: All Saints

10.00 – Holy Communion: St Marys

10.30 – Café Church: All Saints

May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with us all evermore. Amen

Blessings

Rev Kester de Oliveira