Though I’m only 16 years old, I haven’t missed the reality that today’s world is full of terror and violence. No matter what goes on in my life, it seems as if those factors are some of the only constants. I cannot recall the last time I woke up and didn’t see a headline about a shooting or another act of terror. At times I find it easy to be consumed by the dark- ness and it is hard to see the light of God and hold onto hope for the future.

At school, I am beginning to be asked what I want to do in the future. I hesitate before answering because, honestly, I don’t know what I want to do. Today’s scripture reading reminds me that the Lord has a plan for everyone. God created each of us to fulfil a purpose. I often find myself wondering, ‘What is my purpose? How does God want me to change the world?’ Even though I don’t yet know the path that God wants me to take, I find a certain joy in knowing that he has a plan for me.

God has a purpose for each of us in this world – for peace not war, for love not hatred. Each of us can find peace in learning to open our hearts to trust God’s will.

Prayer: Dear Lord, help us to recognise the gifts you have given us and to trust that you will use them to make the world a more loving place. Amen