Bible Readings
This is what the Lord says, he who created you and formed you, "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; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not overwhelm you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. (Isaiah 43:1-2)
A Thought
Salisbury Cathedral has a large modern font that is permanently filled with slowly flowing water giving both the sense of stillness, as the surface appears like glass, and of movement as the water flows out from the four corners. Around the font is the inscription from today’s bible reading ‘When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you’.
When we enter into a relationship with God through baptism, he doesn’t promise us a trouble-free life, but he does promise to be with us and that the waters will not overwhelm us. As we face many difficulties at this time, let us remember God's promises to us and, in the stillness, let us renew our baptism promises to him: ‘Do you believe and trust in God the Father who made the world? I believe and trust in him.
A Prayer
Lord Jesus, we thank you that you have redeemed us, that you have called each one of us by name and that you are with us. Help us not to be afraid, but to put our faith in you, today and always.
Amen.
David