As the year draws to a close, I wonder what images of 2017 stay in your mind?

For me, it’s the photos of the burnt-out remains of Grenfell Tower, where 71 people lost their lives in June.

An hour’s drive from St Albans and Harpenden, the tower block inferno sparked national outrage about building standards and how the poor are housed.

Months on, many of the block’s residents are still living in hotel rooms or temporary accommodation.

Part of the debate after the tragedy focused on why the protests of the residents about the building work were ignored by the media.

Some commentators drew parallels with the many millions who voted for Brexit or supported Donald Trump – people who much of the mainstream media had overlooked or underestimated.

Only after the fire did people in power pay attention to the cries of the powerless who had voiced concerns about their safety. But it was all too late.

Jesus Christ confronted the people with power while he walked the earth. He spoke up for and befriended those who other people rejected.

In the aftermath of the Grenfell tragedy, local churches and other places of worship opened their doors to help the victims. Many are still providing help more than six months later.

Church leaders are also working for justice for all those impacted by the tragedy. They are adding their voices to all those outraged by the fire.

Let’s pray that the disturbing images of the burnt-out block will prompt real change in the way people are housed, and how people’s voices are heard.

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