I was one of the fortunate ones, looking in the right direction at the right time, and saw the northern mights at the weekend, a kaleidoscopic dance of lights that was so remarkable. It was ethereal, ever changing, and just spoke of the glory of God. Such incandescent beauty!

I love that even when we are at the end of ourselves, when things seem heavy and dark, suddenly light can break through. Even when the world is in such chaos,  with conflict and suffering and sorrow, somewhere there is still the possibility of hope. It is such a dramatic and profound truth, that can transform all things.

I think of a verse from Micah chapter 7 verse 7 ‘ As for me, I watch in hope for the Lord. I wait for God my Saviour, my God will hear me.’ I love the idea that the presence of God brings hope. Sometimes we wait a long time, but things can change for the better.

We need hope so badly. I hope every day for peace in the world, an end to arms dealing and exploitation and cruelty and torture. I pray for God to pour out His blessing, His healing and grace and mercy. I hope for a more faithful and prayerful church, with people of authentic faith, more purposeful living, humility and compassion. We all need to ask forgiveness for our part in all that is wrong in the world, and to hope and pray for God’s will to be done, for His love to be received by all.

May it start with us. May we let go of prejudice and self centredness and jealousies, of self doubt and insecurity, so that we might embody the love and grace and hope central to  the Christian message. May we be open to the promptings of the Holy Spirit, so that the radiance of Christ might blaze once more in this world, causing us to fall on our knees and worship. May our eyes be open to notice the glory of God around us, that we might be full of reverent praise.

Creator God, you have fashioned such sublime rhythms of colour and brilliance in this world, from the wings of a kingfisher, to the wonders of the night’s sky. We are full of awe at Your majesty. Lord Jesus, You are the light of the world, and Your light can illuminate and transform the darkest places, where we are tempted to think that there is only despair and heartbreak. Holy spirit open our eyes to the radiant presence of God around us, and the possibilities of hope. May we, along with the angels, lift our voices to sing of your glory, with thanksgiving and with awe, in Jesus’ name, Amen