OzThoughts – Thursday 6th November 2008

OzThoughts – Thursday 6th November 2008

Shortly after I awoke this morning, I heard one man say on radio “The election is over. Let’s forget it, stop talking about it and get on with things”. If only life was that simple. Many of us have prayed for this election, that God’s will be done. We must continue to pray for President Elect Barack Obama in these days of transition, that God will guide him in the big decisions he has to make.

I have listened in these past hours to many African Americans say they did not think they would see a black man elected as President. Many have people have referred to Martin Luther King’s speech. I heard one man say it was “only half a life time ago”. He expressed that he had never dared to dream that this was possible in his lifetime.

Way back in the first book of the Bible, long before Jesus lived there was a young man named Joseph. We mostly remember him as the fellow with the colourful coat.

Anyway Joseph’s brothers hated him so much they sold him as a slave to be taken to Egypt. Many years later Joseph is Prime Minister of Egypt and his brothers come seeking help. Eventually, Joseph reveals he knows them and he is their brother. He forgives them immediately. His faith shows through as he says:
“Don't you see, you planned evil against me but God used those same plans for my good, as you see all around you right now--life for many people”. (Genesis 50:20 The Message)

Years later, the Disciple Peter, faces a huge crowd and reminds them of the death and resurrection of Jesus. You people killed Jesus he says but you had no idea what you were doing. You did not know it was God’s plan…

"And now, friends, I know you had no idea what you were doing when you killed Jesus, and neither did your leaders.
18But God, who through the preaching of all the prophets had said all along that his Messiah would be killed, knew exactly what you were doing and used it to fulfill his plans.
19"Now it's time to change your ways! Turn to face God so he can wipe away your sins, pour out showers of blessing to refresh you,
20and send you the Messiah he prepared for you, namely, Jesus”. (Acts 3: 17 – 20 The Message)

PRAYER:

Heavenly Father, sometimes there is so much going on it seems confusing. Help me to sort out my priorities and do the things you want me to do. Bless the people of the United States who have elected their new leader. Please be with that new leader as he makes the decisions about his team and the courses of action he will take. Amen.


[Listen: http://www.salvoaudio.com/audio/music3/mus_4443.mp3 ]

From the heart of Jesus flowing,
Cometh Heaven's peace to me,
Ever deeper, richer growing,
Through the cross of Calvary.
Passing mortal understanding,
Yet to seeking ones made known,
And, for all the race expanding,
Gift of God unto his own.

To the heart where strife was reigning,
Jesus spake, dissension ceased;
From the bonds, so long enchaining,
I was instantly released.
Pardon for all past transgression,
Grace for every time of need;
With such treasure in possession,
Happy is my lot indeed.

Undisturbed, throughout the ages,
Heaven's peace is in God's will,
Present though the conflict rages,
Blessing me through good or ill.
Jesus, source of calm unfailing,
With his peace my heart has filled,
He abides, o'er all prevailing,
And, in him, life's storms are stilled.
Charles Coller (1863-1935)
The Salvation Army Song Book: Song Number: 539

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