Last night we had travelled to Cromwell Lock on the River Trent north of Newark. It was late and dark when we arrived. On awakening this morning, we discovered how beautiful it was, yes, a river lock being beautiful. Manicured lawns, high gloss painted ironwork, immaculate walkways. Several boats tethered to mooring points awaiting the full light of day before setting off on some late summer waterway adventure.
I imagined the presumed similarity of Heaven. Everything in order, perfectly arranged. God, Christ Jesus, man and nature in a Utopian rhythm of reconciliation for all eternity.
I had inadvertently parked next to a remembrance memorial, on reading the epitaph, it explained the tragic loss of a number of Royal Engineers in 1975 during a training exercise. My own son is a serving member of this regiment. It matters little whether they fall on the battlefield or a training exercise, we will remember them.
We traveled to Lincoln today, a historic city, steeped in history with the 900 year old cathedral at the centre. Perched high on a plateau, being the first thing people see for miles around. The purpose of our visit was to see a brother in Christ. Nepalese Pastor and teacher of God’s word, Paul. A warm welcome awaited accompanied with sweet tea. Pastor Paul travels around the UK most of his time, to other Nepalese Christian Fellowships to teach, preach and train. We spoke of testimonies, God’s word and advice on my upcoming outreach to Nepal. His lovely wife cooked us some special fried rice for lunch, and special it was. Time passed quickly and we said our goodbyes. It’s important to have fellowship on a continuous regular basis, in Acts 2, as the disciples met, prayed and shared daily, the Lord added to their numbers those who were being saved. Hallelujah!
If we are not extending the Lord’s Kingdom daily, then we should be looking to strengthen the Lord’s Kingdom, by supporting, encouraging, sharing with, praying for our brothers and sisters.
A Monday can not go by, without a prayer and a thought for my brothers and sisters serving our Lord Jesus at Bridges. The Salvation Army citadel in Rochdale is used to cater to a wonderfully diverse group of less fortunate members of the community every week. The Gospel is served hot like the potato pie and after participating in a few renditions of “Jesus lifted high” and “ How great is our God“. Seeking and serving the lost, is another group that give in His Love. I salute them all.
God bless!