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A spiritual comment and prayer to start the day with Ennette C Lainchbury

Morning Everyone,

The Olympics have started this week and for some reason, this year has bought all these wonderful memories of school flooding back. The long jump, the high jump as well, and the relay race – if I was pushed though, I’d have to say the high jump was my absolute favourite. I was always genuinely shocked at the way my back would like contort mid-air, defying gravity and somehow getting me over the bar. Honestly it felt like the closest thing to flying really. It’s just so inspiring to see all the athletes doing super human things and having all these nostalgic school memories, for the first time I’ve really appreciated that. Whilst the race or event might be individual success is a team effort.

These incredible athletes have a whole team of people training, equipping, supporting, and cheering them on over that finish line.
It’s made me reflect on my own life and the team of people I have cheering me on. But if I’m honest, I think it also makes me squirm a little.

Some of my biggest heartbreaks have actually been with dear friends, and I still find myself feeling slightly lonely or bereft of strong community from time to time. If, like me, you’re longing for more meaningful relationships and people that cheer you on as you journey through life, this prayer is for you:

Lord, even when I feel lonely, thank you that you’re always with me. As I yearn for belonging and true friendship, may you help me extend these very same things to those around me, not waiting to first receive before I give the gift of my friendship. Bring to mind a person I can reach out to today. And may your grace fill the space where loneliness seeks to come and rob me of authentic connection and meaningful interactions with the people you’ve already blessed me with in my life.

Amen