Minister’s message: The presence of the Lord

In religions ancient and new the gods are usually distant and far, living their heavenly lives in the heavenly realms, writes Rev James Gatherer.

When mere mortals sought their blessings they went to temples where sacrifices and gifts were offered and if the right names were used for the right gods their prayers may be answered – the safe birth of a child, a successful business deal, the destruction of an enemy.

The basic belief was simple – the gods, if there, were distant and had to be persuaded to pay us any attention. It’s a common belief today.

In the ancient world the Jews were a race apart – unique in life and outlook. In their Creation Story it is the LORD GOD who looks for Adam and Eve to speak to them in the Garden in ‘the cool of the evening’ – it’s Adam and Eve who do the hiding.

Throughout the Old Testament the message is simple – it is the LORD GOD who is near and always ready to bless with his gifts; it is we mortals who turn away and reject what he offers.

In the teachings of the Lord Jesus the LORD GOD becomes abba, Loving Father, who wants to be in our lives and give us ‘good things’.

The invitation that the Lord Jesus gave to the crowds who came to hear him was to ‘turn around’ (that is what repent means, to ‘turn around’) and find that the Presence of the Lord is near and not distant; that we do not need to earn or deserve his blessings and gifts – all we need do is ask and abba, Loving Father, will be pleased to give us ‘good things’.

In the Way of the Lord Jesus, abba Loving Father is not distant and far but near and close – the ‘still small voice’ we can hear if we truly want to listen. A welcome for everyone who seeks to listen is always there at our community church whatever your story.

The Peace of the Lord Jesus be with you.

James Gatherer

• Photo: The Lumo Project