Read… Jeremiah 31: 10-13

Hear the word of the Lord, O nations, and declare it in the coastlands far away; say, ‘He who scattered Israel will gather him, and will keep him as a shepherd a flock.’

This weekend we have been thinking of the Boys Brigade and its’ officers and what effect the Organisation has had on so many lives since it started in Glasgow on the 4th October 1883.

Our BB (4th Southampton) and GB (1st Southampton) began in 1915. We can not guess how many young boys and girls have gone through these Companies since then but it is surprising when you talk to older people and mention BB or GA just how many have been a member of one or the other and express their gratitude and thanks for the times shared and the friends made and kept. What a good start to life it has been for them.

Our reading today reminds us that God sends us out into the world to spread the Gospel and he calls us back to himself, he knows where he has sent us and therefore knows where to bring us back from. He remains our Shepherd and we are kept safe in his fold.

Have you experienced time of sadness and mourning the prophet tells us that our mourning will be turned into gladness and sorrow will be replaced with comfort and joy! What Assurance!

Will your anchor hold in the storms of life,
When the clouds unfold their wings of strife?
When the strong tides lift, and the cables strain,
Will your anchor drift or firm remain?

We have an anchor, that keeps the soul
Steadfast and sure while the billows roll;
Fastened to the rock which cannot move,
Grounded firm and deep in the saviour’s love!

Ponder… Are there times when you have struggled with mourning and sorrow, but have later found joy and gladness once more? How could your experience help others?

Pray… FOR OUR COMMUNITY We pray for Jason and all of the volunteers who lead our Boys’ Brigade and Girls’ Association. We thank God for the time, skills and effort they put into their work and we acknowledge the value of what they give. FOR THE WORLD We pray for all of those who volunteer in leadership of organisations worldwide. We acknowledge the importance of the roles they have and we thank God that there are so many willing to give up their time and energy for the benefit of others.

Act… Ask someone how they are and take time to listen to the answer.