APRIL – 'Home' goal

“I am with you and will watch over you wherever you go, and I will bring you back to this land. I will not leave you until I have done what I have promised you" - Genesis 28:15

When you have been alone and facing a traumatic or demanding situation, have you had a sense that you're not alone. Perhaps one of the most arduous situations of modern times was faced by Sir Ernest Shackleton and two friends as they were crossing the bitter, icy wastes of Antarctica.

Blinded by blizzards, frozen with cold, and weak from exposure, they pressed on towards their goal. And out of that seemingly hopeless expedition came one of the greatest object lessons to all who become weary as they tread a path of duty – follow a commitment made, and can't turn back.

'Ernest Shackleton's Trans-Antarctica expedition of 1914 - 1917 is one of the most incredible adventure stories of all time. It is remarkable even for an era and region that already has far more than its fair share of incredible tales of heroism and fortitude in the face of appalling hardships.

The intention was to cross the antarctic continent from one coast to the other via the south pole. in the event, the expedition never set foot on continental antarctica. the expedition managed to survive the loss of their ship in the middle of the antarctic pack ice at a time when there was no chance of contacting the outside world, let alone of being rescued. (http://www.coolantarctica.com)

It is a classic tale of leadership and heroism.'

Shackleton wrote: “When I look back on those days with all their anxiety and peril, I cannot doubt that our party of three was divinely guided, both over the ice and across the storm-swept sea. I know during that long and wracking march....it seemed to me often that we were not three, but four. I said nothing to my companions on the point, but afterwards Worsley said to me, 'Boss, I had a curious feeling on the march that there was another person with us.'”

I guess there would be many sceptical people who concluded that they were suffering from Arctic fever, but this feeling is not delusional. It is apparent that these men gained their courage and heroism from a deep trust and faith in God – an innate belief that, no matter what dangers lay ahead, God was watching over them and they had nothing to fear. I can recall times in my life of deep need and fear I was facing alone, when the presence of another Person by my side was tangible, so real I have reached out to touch them. I'm sure you too have had similar experiences, with the incredible feeling of calm and peace that comes - like a warm blanket round the shoulders on a cold night.

We too are on an expedition – earth to eternity. The path is not always easy as the blizzards hit us. At times we fall into a crevasse and we can see no way out, but we know we are not alone. God walks beside us giving support and encouragement. We will reach home.

Today may we resolve to always walk with Him by our sides. We serve a wonderful God!

I have chosen “Footprints in the Sand” - sung by Leona Lewis as our music today.