As I write storm Benjamin is beating (more gently than expected) on my window. The Autumn leaves that have given joy walking through them are now a soggy slippery menace as I cycle to town. The horizontal rain seems able to drive into every gap in my waterproof outer layer.
Yet I rejoice, as the Lord has promised that he will be there for us through every storm in our lives!
If you do not read the Tablet magazine, then you will be missing a brilliant letter on this kind of topic from a former prison inmate. This is timely as this is prisons week. The author makes it clear that the great majority of inmates are not persons of bad character - they are victims of abuse, addiction or oppressive poverty. We need to remember them, as at least we are able to get outdoors and enjoy the freedom of the wind blowing where it will. In their lives, the winds have rather blown them 'where you would rather not be taken'.
Heavenly Father, I bring before You those who are imprisoned and struggling with guilt and shame. Lord, draw them to repentance and reveal Your love and mercy to them. Let them experience the cleansing power of Your forgiveness and embrace the salvation You offer. Give them a new beginning and help them walk in Your ways. In Jesus’ name, Amen.