URC Daily Devotion 24 July 2026

St Mark 10 v 45
Jesus said: ‘For the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life a ransom for many.’

Reflection
How many of our churches could be stronger if they worked in partnership with other agencies in their communities? I know many already do and see the benefits of that. Looking at the church of which I am a member, a few years ago we carried out an extensive refurbishment of our sanctuary, hall and toilets. It’s now comfortable and warm. We need a new kitchen to enable us to embark on the mission we feel called to in our diverse community.  We are not in competition but want to work alongside others. We can’t and won’t survive on our own. We have a close relationship with the local community supermarket and local primary schools.  Our most recent community development is using our grounds as a car park for Coventry City FC fans. The thing about that is not only bringing money in but having fruitful conversations with those who park. We have a community drama group that meets in our large hall, church members are a part of that and the members of the drama group see the congregation as ‘their church’ and support us at church events not just by coming but by being a part and helping. We couldn’t do without them!  By the time you read this we hope to have a different peer support group running.  We are lucky in that we have grounds and greenery; this is going to be developed by making it more nature friendly and diverse with native hedging and trees which have been planted as well as a mini orchard. Our dream is to work alongside and with others so that our part of Coventry can become a Compassionate Community.

Prayer
Let us pray for our local churches 
and the communities in which they are set. 
We give thanks for the opportunities 
of sharing and living out our faith with our neighbours. 
May we offer welcome, support, love and hospitality.
May each church find its own way 
of being a servant to those around them, 
so that our communities become more compassionate.
Amen