Monthly Message Jan 2018

Although very late in the month – a happy New Year to you!  May it be a year in which you are especially conscious of the Lord’s presence with you in whatever you do and wherever you go.

As Jesus’ ministry progressed there were many occasions when his presence was an encouragement, instilling courage into otherwise fearful hearts.  Both Matthew and Mark record the story of Jesus stilling the storm on the lake, a story that illustrates how futile it is to be afraid in his presence.  There he was in the boat with his disciples, and he was fast asleep.  A sudden storm blew up, threatening the boat.  The disciples woke him. “Lord, save us!  We’re going to drown!”  Jesus must have detected an element of panic in their voices, for he referred to their ‘little faith’ and their being ‘afraid’.  “We’re going to drown!” hardly sounds like a statement born of faith and trust.  Yet if, as they declared, he was ‘Lord’ were they not safe?  Just as safe as he was?  There is a strange illogicality in saying, in the same breath, both “Lord!” and “We’re going to drown!”  Christians need be constantly aware that, whatever the outward circumstances may seem to be and to suggest, we are secure when we are in the presence of the Master.  And when are we not in that presence?

Plans are well in progress for this year’s Bible Focus, so if you haven’t already done so, do put Saturday 29th September in your diary.  I look forward to seeing you there.

Warmest greetings in Christ,

Tony Mason

 

Chairman, Saffron Walden Bible Focus