Tuesday 11 August 2026

Psalm 150

Background
Today we reflect on the way in which the story of salvation through Jesus began to move out from the Jewish community – into which he had been born – to the wider community, which we ourselves are part of, thousands of years after the events described here.

Among the crowds described in the previous passage were some Greek citizens who were curious about this man (Jesus) whose name was being called out and seemingly had a role to play in local life. They ask Philip about him as they recognise him as being one who knew Jesus. They said they would themselves like to see Jesus. Philip went to Andrew and both ask Jesus if he would meet these strangers. The reply they receive is a strange one, stating that if they truly believe the special nature of the one to whom they are speaking then they themselves will represent him, and they will help these strangers to begin a faith journey for themselves.

To Ponder:

• Does it seem strange to us reading this account that Jesus doesn’t immediately come to greet the strangers but to some extent challenges his apostles to greet them on his behalf?
• Does this relate well to the way in which we today are challenged to demonstrate our love for Jesus by ministering on his behalf?
• Where do we meet Jesus in our own lives in an empty space or sometimes in a stranger?

Prayer
Help us, Lord, to represent you in our own lives so that people catch a glimpse of Jesus and ask to know him and follow him for themselves. Empower us to be brave enough to truly minister day by day in the way we live our own lives. Amen.

Bible notes author: The Revd Pat Billsborrow
Pat came into ministry 39 years ago and has been a supernumerary for 20 years. She is happy to continue serving wherever she is needed.