19th May 2026

Conflict‑monitoring group ACLED reports that incidents of political and criminal violence are on the rise the country heads into a new electoral cycle. Colombia's presidential election is slated for Sunday, 31st May.  weekend two staff members from a presidential campaign were shot dead in the central department of Meta. Three weeks ago a there were several attacks against civilians and military bases in departments like Cauca and Valle del Cauca and a bombing on the highway between Cali and Popayán which killed more than 20 people. At least three presidential candidates have reported receiving death threats.

Loving God, we lift the nation of Colombia before You. We ask for an end to all forms of violence that afflict its land and people. May the spirit of Christ’s peace permeate every heart.  Bring your comfort and love to all who mourn and bring healing where their is injury. May past grievances be transformed by forgiveness.  Move among all who hold positions of authority in Colombia. Grant them wisdom, integrity, and courage in their decisions, and inspire them to prioritise peace, justice, and the well-being of every citizen. Help them enact policies that uplift the poor and protect the vulnerable. May the elections be free and fair - no one being coerced to vote in a particular way.  May the outcome be honoured by all.  We ask that you will lead all wo are elected to office to work for a lasting and just peace.  In Jesus' name we pray. Amen.

Following yesterday's good news about money raised for the Brain Tumour Charity from a Welsh school's mini marathon, today we learn of another marathon effort from Wales.  Joseff Griffiths from Peniel ran this year's London Marathon in two hours, 55 minutes and six seconds, putting him in the top 10 per cent of finishers; an incredible achievement for his first ever marathon. In doing so he raised £2,638 for the Salvation Army, but hopes to raise more via his JustGiving page. Now in his fourth year of studying medicine at Nottingham University he said “the last few miles were very tough” but running over Tower Bridge “was great fun”. Joseff’s inspiration began with his younger sister Bethan, who has Down’s Syndrome. Whenever she sees someone sleeping on the streets, it brings her to tears — and compels her to take action. Each year, she donates her birthday money to The Salvation Army’s Christmas appeals.  The Salvation Army expresses its Christian faith by offering friendship, practical help and support to some of the most disadvantaged people.

Psalm 77: 1-4 & 10-15

I cried out to God for help;

I cried out to God to hear me.

When I was in distress, I sought the Lord;

at night I stretched out untiring hands,

and I would not be comforted.

I remembered you, God, and I groaned;

I meditated, and my spirit grew faint.

You kept my eyes from closing;

I was too troubled to speak.

Then I thought, ‘To this I will appeal:

the years when the Most High

stretched out his right hand.

I will remember the deeds of the Lord;

yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago.

I will consider all your works

and meditate on all your mighty deeds.’

Your ways, God, are holy.

What god is as great as our God?

You are the God who performs miracles;

you display your power among the peoples.

With your mighty arm you redeemed your people,

the descendants of Jacob and Joseph.

Amen.