While I was beginning to draft this article, the nation received the sad news of the death of our longest serving and faithful Monarch, Queen Elizabeth II. Despite her 96 years and obvious frailty the late Queen was a symbol of enduring dependability. Her faith in Jesus Christ, which was fundamental to her, not only gave her strength and sense of purpose in life, but peace and assurance to face death. May she rest in eternal peace.
Despite some endings being very difficult, endings usually also herald new beginnings. As a nation, this means we now have a King instead of a Queen. While King Charles III has had 73 years to prepare for this, the enormity of the responsibility must weigh heavily upon his shoulders. This sentiment must also be shared by our new Prime Minister, Liz Truss, as she begins the daunting prospect of leading us through what is going to be a difficult winter.
Interestingly, the times during which Jesus lived were just as troubled with wars, rumours of wars, disease, and famine. Jesus told his disciples in Luke 12 that though things looked bleak, they were not to be afraid; that God knew their needs and would provide.
Well you could say, ‘All well and good, but how is my electricity bill going to be paid?’ ‘How am I going to feed my family?’
As a church we are looking at ways to help, but for now, if you need help with energy bills, please visit:
Encompass, a website that can help which is set up by Torridge District Council – https://www.bpag-encompass.org.uk/household-fund-application-form
Christians Against Poverty, which help with managing finances – 08003280006 – at Holy Trinity Church, Barnstaple.
361 Energy who can help with in-home energy visits to offer practical energy saving solutions – 01271 599361 or email: info@361energy.org
Torrington Foodbank. Contact Shirley Beer on 01805 623887 or 01805 623175
Times are hard. Please know that despite this we can all know the peace and strength of Jesus Christ simply by letting him into our lives as our dear late Queen demonstrated.
God bless, Susan