Week four of the Creationtide theme of Justice and Peace flowing through God’s Loving Presence in the World – combining the international theme with the wish to celebrate the beauty of the earth – the positive alongside the hardship and emergency of climate change.

This week’s sub theme is People – God’s Gift of Community.

As I spend time with nearest and dearest
with whom I live, or with whom time is briefer,
Sharing chat and activities, refreshments together,
time that is valued and much needed to thrive.
It’s community from which I draw care and support
and they’re people who need my love and my prayers.

As I sit in cafes (or library, train or similar place)
and watch as others too share that same space.
Working, pondering, sat with their thoughts,
or time with companions of varying purpose:
it’s community in which I draw fleeting connection
and they’re people who need my love and my prayers.

As I walk out and about, joining the hustle and bustle
being amongst the crowds of stranger and kin.
Each person moving from one place to next,
and each with their joys and stresses of life.
It’s community through which I feel part of this world,
and they’re people who need my love and my prayers.

(Written 27 September, 2023)