Daily reflection for the Season of Lent

Tuesday 23rd March 2021

National Day of Reflection

Today has been designated as a National Day of Reflection to commemorate  all the people who have lost their lives during the Covid-19 pandemic.

HRH The Prince of Wales issued this public statement:

"We have all been inspired by the resourcefulness we have witnessed, humbled by the dedication shown by so many, and moved, beyond words, by the sacrifices we have seen.
"Whatever our faith or philosophy may be, let us take a moment together to remember those who have been lost, to give thanks for their lives, and to acknowledge the inexpressible pain of parting."
"In their memory, let us resolve to work for a future inspired by our highest values, that have been displayed so clearly by the people of this country through this most challenging of times."

Bible Reading

Psalm 23

A psalm of David.
The LORD is my shepherd, I lack nothing.
    He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters,
    he refreshes my soul.
He guides me along the right paths
    for his name’s sake.
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.
You prepare a table before me
    in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil;
    my cup overflows.
Surely your goodness and love will follow me
    all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the LORD
    for ever.

Reflection

Let us spend a moment of personal reflection as we remember the people of who have died from Covid-19.
Let us remember their family and friends.
Let us remember the people who cared for them – for their professionalism, compassion, and humanity.
Let us remember politicians and leaders who have had to make difficult choices.
Let us also remember the people we have loved and lost, whose funerals we have been unable to attend.
Let us remember the promises of God, who will never leave us for forsake us.

Prayer

Lord of light and life,
where there is darkness,
let your light shine, the light that brings new life.
As we remember those who have lost their lives,
we pray...let your light shine.
As we remember those who are left, whose lives have changed,
we pray...let your light shine.
As we remember these difficult times,
we pray...let your light shine on all of us and before us to see a way through and beyond.
Let your light shine on the whole of creation today,
tomorrow and forever.
In the name of Jesus who is light and life for all.
Amen

The Lord's Prayer

Our Father in heaven,
hallowed be your name,
your kingdom come,
you will be done,
on earth as in heaven.
Give us today our daily bread.
Forgive us our sins
as we forgive those who sin against us.
Save us from the time of trial
and deliver us from evil.
For the kingdom, the power
and the glory are yours
now and forever.
Amen

Blessing

May the roads rise up to meet you,
May the wind be always at your back,
May the sun shine warm upon your face,
May the rains fall soft upon fields
And until we meet again
May God hold you in the palm of his hand.
Amen