Thought for the day – Saturday 27th June 2020
“Late one afternoon in the 19th century in London, two sight-seeing soldiers went to visit the magnificent Westminster Abbey but found its doors locked. Arthur Stanley, who had become dean of the Abbey in 1863, was walking outside at the time and noticed them. When he learned that they couldn’t return the next day, he unlocked the door and gave them a personal tour. As they walked through that awe-inspiring building, Stanley talked about the honour of being immortalised by having one’s name inscribed on a monument inside. Then he added, “You may have a more enduring monument than this, for this building will moulder into dust and be forgotten, but you, if your names are written in the Lamb’s Book of Life, will abide forever.” Before parting he urged them to receive Christ as their Saviour. “If we never meet on earth again,” he said, “we will certainly meet in heaven.” That day they made sure of their salvation. Your name is written in heaven by trusting Christ on earth.”
This story makes me think about our own church doors being locked at the moment. Shortly they will be reopened for a short period. Many, including myself are quite nervous about this. We don’t know as yet exactly how it will all work. But even though the doors are closed the work of our Lord is very much carrying on and we are getting used to a new way of worshipping God. Another ‘but,’ we miss the fellowship with others. This will change too as we won’t be able to give someone a hug or stand and chat and we’ll have to leave as soon as the time of opening is over.
Please pray for all those making decisions on how we can reopen our buildings and ask God to strengthen our faith as we trust Christ on earth.
God bless, Anna.
