Dear friends
I am writing this to you having just returned from the marvellous Churches’ Weekend Away. 40 of us enjoyed each other’s company and teaching about how the 66 books of the Bible are 1 story—God’s love letter to his world. We were catered for excellently at the beautiful Launde Abbey, near Oakham.
We were surprised with an unprogrammed activity. At 2:30am on Saturday morning we were all awaken by the fire alarm. To add to the adventure, some of us had to traverse temporary deer fencing in the pitch black. We reached the safe assembly point and gathered to listen to the Warden, who said that there was no fire, and we could return to bed. The system in this large Tudor building needs to be sensitive so there is enough warning for all to get to safety. So back we went and tried to set the adrenaline aside and sleep.
What if God sent messenger after messenger to sound the alarm? What if, when no-one reacted, God came himself to show that there is a fire in the house of our relationship with him? If God is truth, can he give a false alarm? What if the third of the world who believe Jesus is the refuge place—the saviour—are right? We have a choice, of course: get to safety, or ignore the alarm and stay tucked up warm in bed hoping it will all be ok. I know which I think requires greater faith.
May you have a splendid summer
Daniel
