Life can be a mixture of emotions. As I write it is raining and cold outside - in fact it has been raining all day! But I've also just been Christmas shopping, choosing what I hope will be presents that will bring a smile to the face of friends and family. In fact each day can be like this: some things go amazingly well, others deeply sadden me; oftentimes I'm cross with myself for what I do; sometimes I lie in bed thanking God for his great mercies and gifts, other times I watch the news and wonder why things are the way they are.
Today's readings show different characters from across the spread of time - the ancient recession of the waters signalling the end of Noah's months cooped in an ark, Ezra's preparation for the return to a land from which the Israelites have been exiled, a man healed from leprosy and a Centurion's servant healed. In all of these situations they face, we see the faith they have shining through, trusting and believing God. Their experiences deepen their understanding of who their God is, prompting Noah to build an altar, Ezra to say "The gracious hand of our God is on everyone who looks to him", and the disciples to ask of Jesus "What kind of man is this?".
As you go today, take time to see your place in history, playing your part in living for God in the same world that saw Noah, Ezra, Jesus himself, live and walk.
Prayer: Lord, help me to remember you walk with me, through the good and bad, the easy and tough, as you have throughout history with those who love you. Amen
(Men's Ministry Leadership Member)