I recall the dark days of the '3 day week' of the early 1970s, and the effects of the miners' strikes. But these days we use far more power to heat and light our homes, with so many gadgets to keep us entertained and warmed.
Could we cope?
But of course there is a different sort of power cut which we may experience, when we are not effectively connected to the life and power of God.
Jesus reminded us of this in graphic terms. 'Remain in me, and I will remain in you. For a branch cannot produce fruit if it is severed from the vine, and you cannot be fruitful unless you remain in me.' (John 15.4)
I am daily reminded that unless I keep close to Jesus, it is impossible for me to develop the character and values of Jesus in my life, and I am bound to fail.
But when I am allowing Jesus to shape me and direct, teach and lead me, then in place of impatience and self-serving nastiness, He can grow his life in mine.
We sometimes assume that we need to be strong to be useful for Jesus. Paradoxically, the weaker we are, the more He can do his work in us.
St. Paul learned that lesson in the only way we can - through times of trouble. 'Three different times I begged the Lord to take away my thorn in the flesh. Each time he said, “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me. That’s why I take pleasure in my weaknesses, and in the insults, hardships, persecutions, and troubles that I suffer for Christ. For when I am weak, then I am strong.' (2 Corinthians 12.8-10)
Today, we can all make sure we keep close to Jesus, and discover his power and life in us. Our weakness is not going to be a trouble. Our being being connected is.
Best wishes,
Richard
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