Make that call
This weekend it’s the 75th anniversary of VE Day. VE stands for ‘Victory in Europe’ as on 8 May 1945, Prime Minister Winston Churchill made an announcement that the war in Europe had come to an end, following Germany's surrender the day before.
Seventy-five years on and the UK was due to run a whole host of events over the bank holiday weekend to mark this significant date. Like so many other things, due to the coronavirus lock down all the activities have unfortunately been scrapped accept some television programmes.
However there has been a host of creative ideas we have been encouraged to do from the safety of home. This includes putting up bunting and having a picnic on the front of your property (weather permitting, of course!).
As I reflect on the devastation caused by wars throughout history, I am very grateful that I have not had to live through one. But here we are in lock down. This coronavirus has been described as the unseen ‘enemy’ and our front-line NHS workers may not be in military uniform but instead are in PPE clothing.
During the second world war, many people turned to God, praying for protection of their loved ones, for a peaceful end to the atrocities in hope for a better future. Today people are turning to God. On Sunday morning an estimated 15,000 churches produced a live streamed service. The Guardian’s online newspaper reported last week:
‘A quarter of adults in the UK have watched or listened to a religious service since the coronavirus lock down began, and one in 20 have started praying during the crisis, according to a new survey.’
Something is going on! As we battle this pandemic people are calling out to God. The Bible is a great source of comfort. In fact, the God who helped people some 75 years ago is the same God today, and his name is Jesus...
“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and for ever.”
You may already know Jesus and enjoy the peace, comfort and joy that He brings. Perhaps you don’t? Let me encourage you to give him a call today! Countless thousands have done that and He has changed their lives.
Also, why not check out our live stream service every Sunday at 10:30am, simply go to www.hopebasingstoke.org/livestream
Stay safe
God bless
Gary Bastin - Hope Community Church leader