All who work for the City’s Children’s services currently facing major cuts to their budget.
Residents of Topsham Croft and Kings Terrace.
Give thanks for all who will attend classes or groups at the Hub or in church this week
Reflection on Luke 6 17- 26,
As Jesus delivers what is commonly known as the "Sermon on the Plain"
He addresses His disciples and speaks blessings over those who are poor, hungry, weeping, and persecuted. These are the people who might be overlooked or despised in the world, but Jesus assures them that their reward in heaven will be great.
He doesn’t condemn poverty but explains that those who are poor in spirit or material resources are blessed because they rely on God’s provision, and they will inherit the Kingdom of God.
He promises that those who experience hunger, whether physically or spiritually, will be filled by God and that those who mourn now, whether over personal losses or the brokenness of the world, will laugh in the future joy of God's Kingdom.
Jesus assures those who suffer for His sake that they will be rewarded in heaven, (just as the prophets were).
Each of these blessings flip worldly expectations—those who seem most unfortunate are, in fact, the recipients of God’s Kingdom.
In contrast, Jesus pronounces woes upon those who are rich, full, laughing, and well-spoken of, highlighting the dangers of comfort and worldly success. He speaks first of the Rich. Wealth can lead to self-reliance, complacency, and a lack of concern for others. Jesus warns that those who place their trust in material wealth will face spiritual emptiness.
He goes on to warn those who are “well fed now”. Physical satisfaction can mask the deeper spiritual hunger we have. Jesus emphasized that temporal comfort will eventually give way to spiritual longing.
He next condemns those who experience joy now without concern for others or for the deeper truths of God’s Kingdom will eventually face sorrow.
Finally he warns against taking satisfaction in being Well-spoken of. The praise of others, especially when based on superficial values, is fleeting. The world may commend those who are influential or admired, but true honour in God’s eyes comes from living according to His will.
