“But when the set time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law to redeem those under the law, that we might receive adoption to sonship.” Galatians 4:4-5 NIV
God who redeems us,
We talk about being redeemed as Christians. But sometimes I forget it is more than just sin being paid for! We remember that You also redeemed the Israelites from bondage in Egypt. You showed us at Passover how the blood of sacrifice, smeared on the door lintels, redeeming them from death. But just being saved from death would have still meant slavery. They were saved from death and lead out of slavery to freedom. Free to pursue a new life and Your provision for the journey to the promised land.
We too are more than redeemed we are free to choose a new way f life with Your provision. I love this verse from Galatians. It reminds us that we are redeemed. The sacrifice of Jesus on the cross frees us from death but it does not leave us where we are. It provides us with new life as Your children by Your Spirit. We not only have Your provision for the journey but a sure and beautiful destination.
One more step along the road I go, keep me travelling along with You, as the song says and keep me worshipping as I go.
In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
Suggestions for prayer . . .
God who redeems us,
For our family and friends. As we recall them and bring their faces to mind bless them.
For our church, Ministers, lay leaders, members. Joy for the journey and a harvest of new people..
For the royal family. For continued healing and family unity.
For our Parliament. So many discussions. Use them in unity, together for good.
For Ukraine, Gaza, Sudan, Myanmar, all places of conflict. Bring an end to war. Speak peace to stubborn hearts. Bless the peacemakers with power. Enable talks to walk out of war.
For our emergency services. Local charities. Food banks.
For those made slaves even today, here and abroad, we pray freedom and a new future.
For today, thanks for spring whether wet, dry, windy or calm. Help us appreciate a new day, life in You and the blessings You will send this week.
In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
Worship Monday 22nd April 2024
Good sometimes to just sing a familiar hymn full blast and lift one’s spirit – and it’s my prayer.
Guide me, O thou great Redeemer,
Pilgrim through this barren land;
I am weak, but thou art mighty;
Hold me with thy powerful hand:
Bread of heaven, bread of heaven
Feed me till I want no more.
Feed me till I want no more.
Open thou the crystal fountain
Whence the healing stream shall flow;
Let the fiery, cloudy pillar
Lead me all my journey through:
Strong deliverer, strong deliverer
Be thou still my strength and shield.
Be thou still my strength and shield.
When I tread the verge of Jordan,
Bid my anxious fears subside;
Death of death, and hell’s destruction,
Land me safe on Canaan’s side:
Songs of praises, songs of praises
I will ever give to thee.
I will ever give to thee.
Lyrics: William Williams