Thought for the Month

In these uncertain times we look towards things which are solid and reliable. Those in the U.K. have relied on the National Health Service (NHS) to provide universal healthcare for 70 years since 5 July 1948 when it started while Nye Bevan, MP for Ebbw Vale in South Wales, was the Minister of Health

Rocks can take many forms. They can be literal or symbolic rocks. Literal rocks can be rough or hewn.

In the Old Testament God was often spoken of as a rock for individuals and Israel. Moses spoke of God as a rock whose work was perfect and all His ways were just. Hannah spoke of God as a rock when she handed over her longed‑for son to God to work in His service.

David spoke of God as a mountain crag and a stronghold. In prayer David prayer to God as a rock because he knew he could rely on God especially in his troubles and cares. Perhaps that's why there are so many hymns that talk about rock.

In Zechariah's day there was the building of the second Temple in Jerusalem. It had its headstone or foundation stone. There was a literal one in that day but it also reminds us of verses in the New Testament which speak of Jesus as a foundation or corner‑stone of which Zerubbabel was a type. It is a quotation from Psalm 118:22‑23 which says, "The stone which the builders refused is become the head stone of the corner. This is the LORD's doing; it is marvellous in our eyes."

Peter picks up on this after describing the early church in this way as lively stones being built into a spiritual house offering spiritual sacrifices. (1 Pet.2:5) This is the Lord's doing this day and cause for rejoicing.