This is Christian Aid – a reflective journey Revd Sara’s Reflections ‘Mighty oaks from little acorns grow’ I wonder, have you ever heard this saying or something similar? It could be read as a simple statement of fact, but do you think it has a deeper meaning? Can you think of other statements that are similar or have the same meaning? Discuss the meaning of this proverb and talk about any examples of great things which have grown from small beginnings. Try to think of examples from your local community if possible. This week is Christian Aid Week – a fundraising week which has taken place each year since 1957. During Christian Aid Week Christians, churches, and supporters of Christian Aid work with their local community to raise awareness about the effects of extreme poverty and injustice, wherever it is found in the world, and to enjoy taking part in fundraising activities together. The money raised helps support community projects all over the world. The people who began the work of Christian Aid were Christians who tried to live out Jesus’ teaching about the importance of loving our neighbour as we love ourselves. Read the parable of the Good Samaritan and share thoughts about why Jesus might have told this story and what the parable means. You could look at a painting of the parable [for example, the version by Vincent Van Gogh] as a starting point for discussion followed by reading the parable. Reflect on what would change if we all ‘loved our neighbour as ourselves’ – in school, in families, in communities, in friendship groups, in the world? Sing or listen to: When I needed a neighbour were you there? [Author: Sydney Bertram Carter] The above notes are adapted from the Christian Aid 2023 resources for worship and reflection. We have celebrated coming together as families, friends and neighbours over the Coronation weekend. Often it is our acts of kindness and support that have far reaching and sometimes unseen positive implications. Just this week someone went through the drive through Costa Coffee and found their bill had been paid. Pray about where your influence can reflect God’s love and grace love and prayers Revd Sara
