We are all aware that the result of yesterday’s referendum on our EU Membership will have major implications. It has been quite a divisive campaign, and the aftermath threatens to be even more divisive. May I offer a few pastoral thoughts?

First, let us always remember that Jesus Christ is Lord, and that whatever the nations of this world do, or don’t do, our God reigns (Php 2:9-11; Isa 40:15).

Second, let us remember that God works in all circumstances to glorify His Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, by building His Church (Eph 1:11-12). It is a great encouragement to know that this is the purpose behind all that God does in this world.

Third, let those who voted to leave not rejoice too much in the result – that would be idolatry (Ps 146:3). And let those who voted to remain not despair because of the result – that would be practical atheism (Hab 3:17-18; Mt 6:31-33). But let us remember the wise words of the hymn-writer:

My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus’ blood and righteousness … On Christ, the solid rock, I stand; all other ground is sinking sand.

Fourth, though we may have different opinions about Britain’s membership of the EU, we remain a forever family in Christ. What unites us is infinitely greater than anything that divides us. In troubled times we have a wonderful opportunity to demonstrate the difference Christ makes, and to showcase the gospel by which one day this broken world will be remade (Jn 13:34-35; Php 2:14-16; Rev 21:1-5).

Finally, since by God’s grace we are members of His kingdom that cannot be shaken (He 12:28), let us live out the gospel of God’s grace in the ways indicated in 1Thess 5:16-18: “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”

It was amazing to see how the older Christians cared for the converts. They were so supportive, so caring. They were so well nurtured and the young converts desired to be in the company of older Christians whenever they could.

I think a lot of the young converts nowadays miss out on that. They don’t desire the company of older Christians. They were our College, our Theological College. We learned so much from them. One thing the young do not have is experience. We gained so much. (From Colin and Mary Peckham, “Sounds From Heaven”).

A challenge for young(er) and old(er) alike!

How different our lives could be if we made work into worship: as working for the Lord, not for man. And what if we did this, too, with our play, our leisure, our family time, our garden chores?

Imagine.

Mark Buchanan, “Your God is too safe”