4th May 2022

A thought from George Ford

‘The Lord said [to Elijah] “Go out and stand on the mountain in the presence of the Lord for the Lord is about to pass by.” Then a great and powerful wind tore the mountains apart and shattered the rocks before the Lord, but the Lord was not in the wind. After the wind there was an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake. After the earthquake came fire, but the Lord was not in the fire. And after the fire came a gentle whisper.’ (1 Kings 19:11,12)

Reflection

Elijah was fleeing in fear and needed to listen out and hear God ‘s voice. He didn’t find him in the dramatic or sensational but in the gentleness of a whisper. Often we too in our striving, anxiety or fear are revving too hard. Just as a driver needs to change down a gear (or two) in order to achieve a maneuverer we too should slow down, and take time with God’s word, prayer and then in silent stillness hear God’s re-assurance and encouragement – His peace amid our turmoil.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, in your great love help us today amid all our busyness and striving to slow down and to take time to attentively listen for your calming whisper of love, re-assurance and encouragement, and be strengthened By your spirit through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Worship

Faithful one, so unchanging. Ageless one, You’re my rock of peace. Lord of all I depend on you. I call out to you again and again. You are my rock in times of trouble You lift me up when I fall down. All through the storm Your love is the anchor. My hope is in You alone. (Brian Doerksen 1989)