Leaving a mark

"Whenever the rainbow appears in the clouds, I will see it and remember the everlasting covenant between God and all living creatures of every kind on the earth." Genesis 9.16

So said God to Noah thousands of years ago - and those very words echo down the ages every time believers see a rainbow. It is the sign of God's good intentions for the creation he loves. We inherit God's promise to Noah and so the rainbow is a message for us too. Furthermore it invites us to consider what sign or legacy of our love we might leave, as an expression of enduring commitment?

Yesterday I buried a lady in Lochcarron. She was well up in years when she died and often that means a small funeral because there are so few left who know the person. But not in her case. They came out in droves - of all ages - such was the legacy of this fine Christian and pillar of her family and community.

In Christian Aid Week believers are challenged by the heroic struggle of those who live and work against the odds to build their churches, nurture their families, serve their communities. Taking inspiration from their example, we are invited to join them - both in our own families and communities and in theirs. This is an endeavour we share, for it will shape the future for all of us...