There is a shed-load of stuff this week. Grab yourself a cuppa and strap in.
We have a great all-age activity for Psalm 1 and liturgy resources for the RCL readings. But first, we have Lent devotionals.
Yes, yes, I know. We’ve only just put the Christmas stuff away. But Lent starts in less than a month. (And I’ve been scoffing hot crossed buns for weeks.)
Pop along to my author site (fayrowland.co.uk) to see the books, recommended by members of the Association of Christian writers (ACW) Click here to see the first set of recommendations.
And, of course, I’m going to promote my own Lent books:
The Big Story
Trace the whole story of the Bible from Creation to Easter in bite-sized chunks, and see how it all hangs together in one grand story that leads to Jesus.
Each day, from Ash Wednesday to Easter Day, tells part of the story with a short reflection and prayer.
Broken Bits and Weirdness
Meet some of the Bible’s most dismal failures, in nine intergenerational studies including special features for Good Friday and Easter Sunday.
Each session has a reflection, craft, cooking, outside activity and labyrinth.
Visit my author site to see the first set of recommendations.
Psalm 1
Next, a lovely all-age activity to illustrate the ‘tree planted by a river’ from Psalm 1.
This magical unfolding tree is perfect for Messy Church or for kids clubs, Sunday school or family fun. It’s simple but spectacular, and now comes with video (woo hoo!)
And, let’s be honest, adults like doing this stuff too. So why not try it at a Bible study group. Visual stuff sticks in the mind and soul so much better than just hearing words.
You will need:
- Paper
- Coloured pens or pencils (NOT felt tips!)
- Plate
- Water
What to do:
- Draw a tree with large sticky-out bits (that’s a technical term)
- Write a verse from Psalm 1 – mine is paraphrased – and decorate with leaves
- Fold in the trunk and sticky-out bits
- Put your folded tree on a plate and add water, then stand back and watch the magic!
- Your ‘tree planted by the water’ will unfold and reveal the hidden message (video below)
Sixth Sunday after Epiphany
Jeremiah 17:5-10, Psalm 1, Luke 6:17-26
Confession and Absolution
O Lord,
We have trusted more in earthly riches than in your kingdom.
We have strived more to be filled with bread than with your goodness.
We have wanted more to be happy now than to be happy for ever with you.
May we know our poverty,
May your kingdom come.
May we be hungry for righteousness,
May your kingdom come.
May we weep with you for the wrong in the world,
May your kingdom come.
Forgive our short-sightedness
and grant us a glimpse of your kingdom.
And may your will be done in us,
as in heaven.
Amen.
Blessing and Dismissal
May we be like trees planted by the water,
bearing fruit in season.
May we delight in the law of the Lord,
as we meditate day and night.
And may the blessing of God – Father, Son and Holy Spirit – be upon us,
whose trust is in the Lord.
Go in peace and in the strength of the Lord,
and may the Lord guide your way, this day and for ever.
Amen.
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The Reflectionary 