Last Friday night we braved the cold and went to the beach to watch the Blessing of the Fleet Fireworks display.  Nelson is very much a fishing port with many deep sea fishing boats based here, coming and going every few weeks.  We have 2 large companies in the area who process fish in various ways, fresh, frozen and tinned; so blessing the fleet of fishing vessels is quite an occasion.

As darkness fell and we waited for the 6:30 pm display, many people streamed onto our lovely beach with families, food and friends.  Then, right on time the sky was filled with a wonderful display of fireworks.  There was much delighted oohing and aahing from the crowd (including us) as we watched.

I was going to share a picture with you here that we took, but then this glorious one (above) came in on a Telegram channel I follow. It was taken in Norway (and had no credit attached), I hope it's not photoshopped!   Because of recent solar flares from the sun there has been the most glorious display of "God's fireworks" in many parts of the world and they are so much better than anything we could produce. 

This picture reminded me of Jesus' words to his disciples, recorded in Luke 21:25-26 “And there will be strange signs in the sun, moon, and stars. And here on earth the nations will be in turmoil, perplexed by the roaring seas and strange tides. People will be terrified at what they see coming upon the earth, for the powers in the heavens will be shaken."

We see and hear every day of people, though maybe not terrified, who are becoming more and more concerned about things they are happening around them and afar. God is very much into letting us know what is coming so that we will not be taken unawares. Later in Luke 21 verses 34-36 Jesus gives this warning, “Watch out! Don’t let your hearts be dulled by carousing and drunkenness, and by the worries of this life. Don’t let that day catch you unaware,  like a trap. For that day will come upon everyone living on the earth.   Keep alert at all times. And pray that you might be strong enough to escape these coming horrors and stand before the Son of Man.”

We have God's word, let's take every opportunity to read it, study it, hear it..... every day.  We can never say we didn't know if we are willingly ignorant.  These days I realise more and more how important it is to draw near to God.  My peace depends upon it, and though you may not know it, yours does too.  

Let me leave you with encouragement to get your Bible out, (or go online) and read Hebrews 10:19-25, and draw near.

Prayer: Almighty God, Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, thank you for your word and your warnings.  Help me to draw near to you each day and live in the peace that only you give. Amen