Kim and I took Bethany and Jack up to Hay Bluff (and no, there is no connection between my being there and it being shut a few hours later at the start of lockdown!). As we sat and ate our picnic enjoying the stunning views, Jasper scavenged a piece of animal bone which he gnawed on for lunch, sheep and ponies grazed, the sun shone and the sky was a deep blue. God’s magnificent creation was evident in all its glory and everything seemed so………..normal.
But of course we then returned home – our allowance of one outdoor trip per day over and done with and the far from normal lockdown confining us to the house once again.
Our God, the one who created mountains and valleys, oceans and rivers, deserts and verdant pastures, forests and vast plains, plants to harvest, food to eat, myriad colours to enjoy and so much more is so much bigger than any pandemic, any crisis, any situation. That’s why, even in times of turmoil, He is worthy of our praise.
In Romans 1:20 it says:
For since the creation of the world, God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made…
It has been great to see answers to prayer over these last few weeks. Caz & Michelle both out of hospital and recovering, Cheryl being able to remain at home where she feels most comfortable, Lorenzo’s daughter’s breathing easing within a few hours of our prayers being offered, Jeremy (Chris & Julia’s son) feeling a lot better and many others besides. At this extraordinary time, it is right that we pray for one another, for NHS staff and for all those who continue to work in those essential services, for our government as they take difficult decisions and for those who will be financially hit as a result of this virus. But let us also remember to praise God for who He is, His eternal power and divine nature, for all He has done for us and especially for sending his Son that we may be restored in relationship with his Father, our Creator God.
Let’s do that together in song:
Steve S
At this unprecedented time, people everywhere are searching for comfort, peace, or anxiety relief. If you’re stressed out, filled with fear, or panicked about what tomorrow may bring—there’s hope. There’s an answer. There’s good news. Let’s listen to Pastor Craig Groeschel preaching the final message in the Not Afraid series and discover what we can do when anxiety attacks.
Before you go – check out this week’s Doing Church Differently… for Kids!
Amen