The storm and the calm
As I write this I'm looking out of the window at the Atlantic Ocean. The view is incredible on a beautiful but cold Saturday afternoon in November. The scenery is quite breathtaking and I can see for miles ahead here on the Shetland Islands.
The crazy thing is that yesterday a violent storm was blowing so hard here that all flights from the Scottish mainland was cancelled and all passengers had to be put in nearby hotels and try again 24 hours later.
As I landed in beautiful conditions earlier today it almost seemed impossible to imagine the storm-like conditions the previous day.
As I looked out on the idyllic surroundings a scripture came forcibly to mind from Isaiah 43 :
" Do not fear, for I have redeemed you. I have summoned you by name; you are mine.
When you pass through the waters, I will be with you.
When you pass through the rivers they will not sweep over you.
When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned.
For I am the Lord your God. "
Reality is that storms come and go. It's never pleasant having to go through one but the good news is they do not last forever.
For those reading this today and you're in the middle of a storm, a never-ending tornado : be encouraged that it will not last forever.
Breakthrough is coming and you will see a better tomorrow.
Stay focused on Jesus and understand that even in your darkest day… He journeys with you and has promised never to leave you or let you go.
So for those in the eye of a storm today be encouraged - it will not last forever.
There are better days ahead!
As the Psalmist once said, " Weeping endures for a season, but joy comes in the morning".
Praying for those caught in the middle of storms today.
Andrew Smith
National Leadership Team
NLCC new building
New Life Christian Church in Abercarn, Wales have bought a former Working Men's club and are refurbishing it as a church building with facilities for the community too. Part of the building was opened by MP Chris Evans, two children and Mr Nigel Trott on the 8th November.
Senior Pastor Haydn Jefferies said: “The best way to respect the past is to build a better future, and that’s what we at NLCC intend to do here. We already have a fantastic line up of Christmas activities, but when completed, we hope this building will be the Hub of the community all year round, and a hive of activity which will benefit all.
"In 2015 we are hoping to open the Community film club, Coffee shop, Youth work, Messy church for families, and Cap Money Courses which gives people the tools to be in control of their finances. Our work here so far has been completely staffed by volunteers from the church determined to make a difference.”
