As we enter into this New Year it is very easy to start formulating plans to help bring about God’s kingdom. However we will never be able to succeed at this because the Kingdom of God – His role and reign – is not something we can create.
Instead it is that which we are called to demonstrate in our lives and in the life of the church and community, even though we cannot bring it about in our own strength. Yet nor do we have to.
Psalm 23 – He guides me in paths of righteousness.
I remember reading a newspaper article about a young man who collapsed at a disco. On examining the man, a medic found him to be wearing fifteen T-shirts, which had caused him to overheat. The young man had put on layers and layers of clothing to achieve look that made him feel better about himself. Ultimately it was this thinking that brought about his suffering, and embarrassment.
“The LORD will bless His people with peace.”
Psalm 29:11
Restoring broken relationships.
Many years ago my wife and I bought a Tiffany print for £50, (a large outlay for students!). The picture was full of vibrant colours, as you looked out onto a landscape through a medieval window, and I would often find myself drawn to the picture. Many years later I went online to look at how much another print would cost. In looking at a picture of the one I already owned I came to realise that, over the years, I had not noticed how much it had faded – or that the colours now bore little similarity to the original. I now knew the difference and could not restore my picture. Eventually I took it down, and then threw it out. Many of us feel that our lives lack lustre and write ourselves off – yet we have a Father who can restore even the most damaged of lives.
Swim while you’re Winning
A 61-year-old woman has set off on a 103 mile swim from Cuba to Florida in shark-infested waters.
US swimmer Diana Nyad is hopeful to claim a world record more than 30 years after her first attempt was compromised by dangerously heavy waves.
Though the same swim was completed by Australian Susan Maroney in May 1997, Nyad will attempt the swim without a shark cage.
Before setting off, she said: “I’m standing here in the prime of my life. Now I look out at dead, flat calm waters, so I think this is my day.”
The warmth of the sun
Permeates my flesh.
I bask in the true beauty
Of your created world
On this glorious summer morning,
And wonder at the depths
To which your majesty goes.
A gentle breeze caresses the boughs
And whispers your promises.
Even the birds praise you,
Joyous in their song,
Crying out in their worship.
I am overawed, Father.
I am humbled by your glory.
The detail in every living thing,
Michaelangelo’s craftwork
Exhibited in the frailest of leaves,
The most delicate of petals.