Text of the week

As a deer longs for flowing streams, so my soul longs for you, O God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When shall I come and behold the face of God? My tears have been my food day and night, while people say to me continually, 'Where is your God?'' (Psalms 42:1-3 NRSV)

By The Newsroom

Published 4th Dec 2016, 10:00 BST

I have a favourite story, I cannot remember where I first heard it, about a little girl who is playing at her friend Amy’s house and is late home for her tea, despite the promises she has made that she will be on time. Eventually just when her worried mother is about to lift the phone to find out where she is, she comes in. “Why are you late?”

Her mother asked. “Well, said the girl “Amy’s favourite doll got broken so I had to stay a little longer.”

“I see” said the mother, “and you were helping her fix it?” “No said her daughter. We couldn’t fix it, so I was helping her to cry.”

Being with someone in their trouble can be as valuable as trying to sort their trouble out.

Knowing you are not alone in any difficulty is one of the great consolations of a faith where Jesus promises always to be with you.

Rev. Alec Shuttleworth,

Tulliallan and Kincardine Parish Church

Jesus