After a long period of dryness in prayer or perhaps even a little depression, the healing of the spirit of the Lord can seem like the rain that ended the drought in the story from 1 Kings. During those periods of dryness or loneliness it is important not to lose heart, but to remember that the Lord is especially present during those times.

Most of us have lost our temper on occasion and perhaps we even called someone a bad name or said unkind things. We might think that it is not important - but Jesus likens anger and insults to murder! That sounds rather severe, but if we consider that every person is created in the spiritual image and likeness of God then it makes more sense. When we fail to respect the dignity of another and when we are unkind and unjust we deface and damage that image. The anger and lack of forgiveness that leads to this is at the root of so much evil, sin, and violence. Jesus insists that we treat one another - even difficult people - with reverence and respect, and that we seek reconciliation whenever something negative has happened. If we practised this more often we would be happier and we would have healthy, life-giving communities. If nations practised it, we might have fewer wars. Think well of others, bless them in your heart, and you will see a difference in yourself and in them. Begin today and change the world!