Rev Michael Anokye: LENT – 7TH MARCH, 2024
A TIME FOR EVERYTHING
Introduction:
You may have heard this famous poem being read at a funeral, but we rarely give it much thought. The poem reflects the natural rhythms of life, some of which we can control and others beyond our control. These rhythms include birth and death, planting, and harvesting. Whatever we do to affect others, we must eventually follow the rhythm of God’s work in the world.
Reading: – “For everything, there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven: a time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted; a time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; a time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; a time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing; a time to seek, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away; a time to tear, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak; a time to love, and a time to hate; a time for war, and a time for peace” (Ecclesiastes 3:1-8).
Reflection:
This verse emphasises the belief that God oversees everything, and time plays a vital role in demonstrating His sovereignty. God’s sovereignty extends throughout the past, present, and future, and everything that occurs is either caused or permitted by Him for His purposes. Sovereignty is an inherent trait of the Creator, as God owns and controls His creations.
We cannot hide from God’s presence. So, accepting His sovereignty is crucial. Psalm 139:7-8 says, “Where shall I go from your Spirit? Or where shall I flee from your presence?” Since we cannot hide from the presence of God, we are encouraged to do His will. Read the great Psalm 139: HERE
Let us pray:
Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name,
your kingdom come, you will be done on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us today our daily bread.
And forgive us our debts as we forgive our debtors.
And lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil.
For yours is the kingdom,
the power and the glory forever and ever.
Amen.
Action:
Prayer for Others: Who is on your mind today? Lift them to God.