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Viewpoint from Rev Chris Tinker 02/05/2014
 as published in the Yarmouth Mercury
Rev Chris Tinker
Rector, St Nicholas' Church, Bradwell
Weather Watching
We're often told that we're a nation obsessed with the weather, but the problem with the weather is that, despite our best efforts, in the end it is unpredictable, even a forecast of rain for Great Yarmouth can still mean a scorching sunny day here in Bradwell
And of course the weather isn't the only thing in life that is uncertain, there are all sorts of questions that face us from day to day. The bible is no stranger to uncertainties in life. Jesus' brother James writes “Now listen you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money.” Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow”
But there is one thing that we do know, one thing that never changes; the character of God. In an ever-changing world the character of God is unwavering. He is the God who made us and cares for us. He wants us to know him and know his care, and he has done everything we need for that to happen
God came to earth a little over 2,000 years ago, and showed his unchanging character. Jesus was the most caring man that ever lived, gathering in people sidelined by society. Jesus was also the most reliable man that ever lived, and was even able to control the weather! He offered great reassurance to his followers, telling them not to worry about life, what they will eat or drink or wear, because God cares for his world and his people
But the greatest certainty of all is that God will welcome back anyone who puts their trust in him. Jesus put it this way, “Whoever believes in the Son will not perish but have eternal life.” There is the certain offer of forgiveness and eternal life for anyone who begins to follow Jesus
I don't know how the weather will be for you over the summer, and I can't tell you what it will be like even tomorrow, but we can be confident that God does not change, that his offer of a life knowing him now and forever is open to all. What better way to go through life than to know the one who made us, who cares for us and is more reliable than anything else in this world?
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