A Hope and a Future

You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you, declares the Lord.

Jeremiah 29:13–14

In an effort to know the future, many people may be turning to astrology and other means. They are worried about the future and feel out of control in all aspects of life. During this tragic time of the coronavirus pandemic it is natural to be anxious and fearful. As Christians, we know that we do not have to face life alone, as God is facing it with us. ‘I will never leave you nor forsake you.’ We have a powerful advocate in God. The power which He infuses in our lives is the same power that He used to raise Jesus from the grave.

On Sunday next, the Church celebrates Pentecost as the anniversary of the coming of the Holy Spirit on the disciples. When we accept Christ as our Saviour, God sends the Holy Spirit to live within our lives. Despite what is happening all around us and to us, let us ‘Trust in the Lord with all your heart; and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him and He will direct your paths.’ (Proverbs 3: 5–6) In spite of the disasters we are experiencing, let us try not get bogged down in all the news reports. In faith, let us trust and pray earnestly that Jesus Christ our source of life-changing power, who calmed the storm and healed people, will guide us step by step through this dark, wilderness experience.

Let us pray.
Almighty God, we thank you for the hope which you have given us through your Son, Jesus Christ.
Help us to remember that all the strength and power which we need is available through you.
Father, please comfort those who are grieving the loss of loved ones,
help us to show those who have no hope that there is hope in you.
The distress which the country is experiencing has brought out a wonderful outpouring of kindness and concern in communities.
Help us to continue to assist persons in our communities
who may be fearful, depressed, lonely, ill, mourning the loss of loved ones, in need of food and other supplies.

  The Lord is my light and my salvation –
 whom shall I fear?
The Lord is the stronghold of my life –
 of whom shall I be afraid?

Wait for the Lord;
 be strong and take heart
 and wait for the Lord.

Psalm 27: 1, 14

Father, help us to be unafraid today and to go out in your strength,
to enjoy the beauty of your world and the blessings in our lives.

Amen

Glynne Gordon-Carter