Now faith is the substance of things hoped for the evidence of  things unseen.         Hebs 11:1

       The small seaside community were united in prayer as they gathered on the sandy strip of beach.

         Jack Renold’s 10 year old son Tom had been swept out to sea when a storm stirred the sea into a fury.

            The small fishing dingy had been taken past the point and now was being battered by the churning waves.  

           Jack prayed ‘O lord we cannot see him but I know You do and I ask in Jesus’ Name that he remembers to steer for the Island.     He will not be able to see it in the dark but help him to steer to where he knows it is.’

             Young Tom remembered his father’s words and with determination struggled to keep the small craft afloat and in a straight line.   

              A huge wave rolled, and on its crest he suddenly saw something in the distance…… it was a small light – only a pinprick in the distance but he knew now he could courageously travel forward. towards land ahead.

             The search boat found Tom on Cress Island the following afternoon.     He and his little boat were returned safely to the mainland.   

             There was no explanation for the light, but an old battered oil lamp still swung discarded from a tree.   Could a shaft of moonlight have reflected off the glass.    None of it mattered.

 Tom’s safe return brought relief, great JOY and thanksgiving prayers.

              This community learnt valuable lessons for us to keep in our hearts today. 

           Ask God for His Help.

           In FAITH and HOPE let us travel forward knowing that we are to be, in this dark world,  LIGHTS in the darkness. 

              Even a pinprick of light can bring Hope and Courage to someone else.

               Have a joyous and peaceful Sunday.

                                            A-men!