Lent 2020 day 43

’Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.’ (Lamentations ‪3:22- 23‬ )

(Sadly I read the verse too late in the day to get the morning sun - but here’s the midday sun and a compliant husband who stopped eating lunch and put on my sunglasses so I could get my daily photo! Haha!)

Mandy Marshall writes: “I often get asked how I keep doing what I’m doing in the face of the stories I hear of women being abused by their husbands and partners. What I hear is horrific – sometimes barbaric, always diminishing the survivors of abuse.

With each story of abuse, however, there is a counter-story of hope and love. This comes in the form of Christians reaching out to provide unconditional support – to walk alongside the survivor to bring healing, justice and hope for the future.

Personally, this is about discipleship and obedience to God’s calling. When I co-founded Restored in 2010, I had lamented to God about the situation, and I heard God challenge me to step up and out of my comfort zone to do something.

In the darkness, it is us that bring light, love and hope; only we are prepared to step out of our comfort zones and follow God’s will for us.

Dear Lord Jesus,
When the darkness closes in, may I see your light of love shining through and showing the way forward. Grant me the courage to bring your light and love to those in need.
Amen.”

(Mandy is the Co-Director at Restored, an international Christian Alliance that aims to transform relationships and end violence against women.)