Context

The Home Secretary Sajid Javid has permitted the use of cannabis oil for specific children. This is seen as paving the  way for the legalisation of cannabis for medicinal use and opening up the possibility of the legalisation for recreational use. 

Retired GP, Dr Jane Barton, 69, is accused of prescribing fatal overdoses of opiate painkillers to her elderly patients while working at Gosport War Memorial Hospital near Portsmouth in the 1990s. 

England won their first match in the world cup, with Harry Kane scoring two goals. 

 

Reflection

Paul writes of the suffering that Christians may endure (2 Corinthians 6.4-10) in pursuing their calling as servants of God. Sometimes the cause of suffering is easily identifiable. At other times it is more complicated. Those who have lost loved ones, allegedly as a result of the actions of Dr Jane Barton, will be feeling a whole range of emotions including pain, disbelief, anger and confusion. Part of their past suffering (and maybe their current and future suffering too) will be as a result of uncertainty. They do not know exactly what caused the death. They are unsure of the motivation of Dr Barton. Christian pain often comes when uncertainty meets faith. There can be guilt that there is not more faith. Faith is not always strong enough to carry us completely.

Football is a team game. Although individuals may shine, it is the working together of the whole team which brings about lasting success. In order to fulfil our Christian calling faithfully we need to work as a team. This means supporting those who are facing the hardships listed in 2 Corinthians 6 through prayer and encouragement, and looking to the strengths each of us has and seeking to use them to further our mission. Not everyone is a goal scorer. Not everyone is a goal keeper. We need to explore ways in which we can identify and use the gifts each person brings.

The stories of the children with epilepsy whose suffering has been alleviated through their being allowed to use oil of cannabis is good news for them and for their families. It is good news that government can act quickly to help individuals. However, the alleviation of suffering can carry with it other issues. Canada has recently legalised the use of cannabis, and there are calls for its legalisation in the UK. Cannabis is said to bring relaxation and happiness, but it can also carry the risk of paranoia and anxiety. Christian faith can bring hope and security, but there is also the risk of the suffering outlined in 2 Corinthians 6. However, whilst a cannabis high is temporary, Christian faith is eternal.

There are many in our world today who can identify closely with 2 Corinthians 6.4-10. For them it is a real experience. As we rejoice at the alleviation of pain of those in the news, it is worth reflecting on the pain of those who suffer for their faith. Consider ways in which their pain can be taken away and how, as their co-workers, we can play a part in enabling them to face what they are currently enduring.

 

Prayer

Two biddings to use in intercessory prayers:

We bring before you all who suffer from epilepsy and multiple sclerosis. Guide those who seek to alleviate their suffering, and give wisdom to those with responsibility for the authorisation of treatments.

We bring to you all who grieve the loss of a loved one, especially those with unanswered questions concerning the death. Give them comfort and hope.

 

Questions

• Should drug laws be relaxed?
• How can Christians open wide their hearts to share the pain of those whose loved ones died in Gosport?
• A goal in injury time shows perseverance, what helps us persevere in the face of difficulties?

 

All-age activity

In pairs or groups, challenge people to identify five facts about nations (other than the home nations) taking part in the World Cup. It could be facts concerning football, or more general information (e.g. capital, currency, population). After noting the differences between a few countries, look for things that they have in common (e.g. taking part in the World Cup). Suggest people pray this week for the country/team they have worked on.

 

Young people

Play the game: ‘The worst thing that could happen to me would be…’, inviting members of the group to complete the sentence in humorous and imaginative ways (but with sensitivity to those who take the words at face value). Ask them to think of people who might be saying this week, ‘That was the worst thing that could happen to me’. In a short time of prayer, bring those people to God, and pray for all who are going through a difficult time.

Rev Stuart Wild is a minister in the Bolton and Rochdale Methodist District.

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