Wednesday Wisdom – Second Week of Lent (2026)

Bible Reading:
“If anyone is in Christ, there is a new creation: everything old has passed away; see, everything has become new.”
— 2 Corinthians 5:17 (NRSV)

Lent is a season of honest reflection and quiet transformation. It invites us to pause, to look inward, and to listen more closely for God’s voice in the midst of our busy lives. The journey of faith is not about becoming perfect, but about becoming renewed.

Paul’s words remind us that life in Christ is not simply an improvement of our old ways, but the beginning of something entirely new. God does not remind us endlessly of who we used to be; instead, God calls us forward into who we are becoming. Lent gives us space to let go of habits, attitudes, and fears that keep us bound to the past.

This renewal rarely comes in dramatic moments. More often, it grows quietly through prayer, acts of kindness, and the daily decision to trust God a little more than we did yesterday. In these small steps, God is shaping us into people of hope, compassion, and grace.

As we walk through this second week of Lent, may we allow God to create something new within us — a deeper faith, a gentler spirit, and a stronger love for others.

Prayer
Gracious God,
In this season of Lent, help us to open our hearts to your renewing work.
Teach us to release what no longer gives life
and to walk forward in faith and trust.
Create in us something new,
that our lives may reflect your love and your light.
Amen.

Prayer for Peace in the Middle East

God of mercy and justice,
we bring before you the people of the Middle East,
caught once again in the shadow of violence and retaliation.
In the wake of the latest strikes, when fear rises
and the future feels fragile,
hold all who suffer in your steadfast care.

Grant protection to the innocent,
comfort to the grieving,
and healing to the wounded in body, mind, and spirit.
Strengthen those working for peace—
leaders, mediators, aid workers, and communities—
that their courage may not fail
and their compassion may not grow cold.

Break the cycles of hatred and revenge.
Soften hardened hearts.
Open paths where none seem possible.
Let justice roll down like waters
and righteousness like an ever‑flowing stream.

For families separated,
for children who know only conflict,
for all who long simply to live in safety—
surround them with your peace that passes understanding.

God of all nations,
teach us to be instruments of reconciliation,
to speak truth with love,
and to stand with those who cry out for dignity and hope.

In your mercy,
bring calm where there is chaos,
light where there is darkness,
and peace where there is war.

Amen.

Pews news for Sunday 1st March 2026

Please see our pews news for 1st March 2026. ALL ARE WELCOME!

Our Sunday morning service begins at 11am and is led by our locum reader, Ian Douglas.

The Bible reading will be given by Sheena Bowman with music led by our organist and choir.

Tea and coffee are served after worship in the halls.

We offer Young Church activities for children of all ages, including Crèche and Sunday School, and warmly welcome everyone to be part of our worship.

We’d love to see you in person at 346 Main Street, Bellshill, for our 11am service.

On Sunday mornings, we are the Church of Scotland in Bellshill.

Livestream from http://www.youtube.com/bellshillchurch