Behind the scenes

"I have other sheep that are not of this sheep pen. I must bring them also. They too will listen to my voice, and there shall be one flock and one shepherd." John 10.16

Listening to the news one might get the impression that it is all bad. "Good news doesn't sell newspapers" and neither, presumably, does it titillate those who feed off Twitter and other social media. But a diet of bleak tidings inevitably leads to cynical attitudes and gloomy mindsets. The prospects for mental health are dire, while the energy for creative thinking is diminished.

The truth is that, behind the headlines, impressive and heart-warming initiatives are being pursued by generous and compassionate people, often in difficult and dangerous places. Underground churches are bringing hope to millions of believers under oppressive regimes; holiday clubs are being run for children of men and women who are in prison; house-parents and child-cares are sacrificing education and careers to look after vulnerable family members, so that they either begin or end their lives in an atmosphere of loving dignity.

None of this would happen if everybody looked only to their own interest, or maintained a jingoistic attitude to those of different ethnicities and cultures. But, in Jesus ,God reveals his concern for all and calls us to reflect that concern, according to our opportunities and in response to our circumstances. Be blessed as you answer that call today and so be a blessing to those you love and serve...