The Sun rose and I grabbed a quick picture. I was dwelling on the phrase;

Luke 21:19

By your patience possess your souls.

The day was a busy one, but after returning I found I had to make repairs to a beam.

This new sawn log shows rings within its bark. These rings are the long years it has grown and had good growth, and bore the afflictions of the British winter where the wood has hardened and caused a ring.

We are asked to bear our afflictions with patience and follow the promptings of the Spirit so that we may fully possess our souls.

The crisis with the refugees at the moment is gripping the politicians but it seems to be the ordinary person who is reacting and being called to help. Handing out blankets and such. The common folk are helping already, perhaps it is the politicians that are hardening their hearts.

As I was explaining the story of Saint Christopher today I realised that this was a perfect way to God.

• We fast (go without things)
• We pray (for what we do without asking for help from God is pure folly)
• We act (being the hands and feet of Jesus)

It is this last one that perhaps some people think is the only important part, but prayer helps to break down barriers and puts God’s Spirit in place to do work. To unbelievers the first two are pure folly, but have faith and do not be deceived into acting without calling on God for help. Fasting is perhaps the least one down in this material rich society and perhaps needs to be focussed on more; going without so others can have.

Hebrews 3:13-15

but exhort one another daily, while it is called “Today,” lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. 14 For we have become partakers of Christ if we hold the beginning of our confidence steadfast to the end, 15 while it is said: