The stranded motorists stuck in the snow in central Scotland were helpless - "there were no signs of gritters or support" - and hopeless - nothing could be done - just sit it out.
As more decisions are made about the cuts to be implemented by Government and local authorities, many vulnerable people are feeling helpless and hopeless. Many on Goldsworth Park will know Jason Vaughan, in his wheelchair. He came to see me the other week, in great anguish at the prospect of much less support available for him. He feels helpless and hopeless. His carers and supporters do a great job, but there are fears for the future.
The Prophet Isaiah was living at a time when hope was in very short supply, for many reasons. Politically, economically, and spiritually, life for the ancient nation if Israel was on the slide. People felt helpless and hopeless.
Yet he brought words of hope and help.
'Out of the stump of David’s family will grow a shoot—yes, a new Branch bearing fruit from the old root.
And the Spirit of the Lord will rest on him—the Spirit of wisdom and understanding, the Spirit of counsel and might, the Spirit of knowledge and the fear of the Lord. He will delight in obeying the Lord.' (Isaiah 11.1-3a)
That promised help and bringer of hope was the Lord Jesus, born at Bethlehem (David's city) and yet dying for us outside the walls of Jerusalem. As St. Paul's reminded his Roman friends, 'When we were utterly helpless, Christ came at just the right time and died for us sinners. But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners. ' (Romans 5.6,8)
Today, we can all know the help and hope from the Lord - because He loves us - and we can bring that help & hope to all we meet. What a privilege!
Best wishes,
Richard
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