Sunday Thought – 22.09.24
Many people enjoy knowing ‘facts and figures’, including some statistics from the Bible. Within the 66 books contained in the Bible there are 1,189 chapters and 31,102 verses. The longest chapter is Psalm 119 and the shortest Psalm 117. The longest verse (in English) is Esther 8:9 and the shortest is John 11:35 with only 2 words: “Jesus wept” (NIV).
These 2 words, simple but hugely important, describe one of Jesus’ reactions when he visited his friends Mary and Martha in the town of Bethany following the death of their brother, Lazarus. The sisters were also weeping and distraught at their loss but their sadness soon turned to joy when Jesus intervened and Lazarus was restored to life (John 11).
“Jesus wept.” Jesus was very much interested in and involved in the emotions in Bethany. Christians believe that, as God, the same Jesus is still very much involved in our present day challenges and difficulties.
“Jesus knows all about our struggles,
Johnson Oatman (1895, Public Domain)
He will guide ’til the day is done;
There’s not a friend like the lowly Jesus–
No not one, no not one.”
If you are a Christian, be reassured to know that despite your many current challenges you can come to Jesus who will always be there for you.
Prayer Points for the Week:
- Pray for the women affected by the Mohamed Al Fayed allegations.
- Pray for the Sri Lankan election this weekend, that it would lead to stability in the country.
- Please pray for the situations in Ukraine and the Middle East. For peace; for aid to get through to those in need; for those mourning the loss of loved ones.
