Access

Gaining access to many countries requires a visa. Photos, forms, fees and facts about you, are needed before the consulate give consent.

Visiting someone once, I found myself without access. The curtain moved but no one came to the door. I remained outside.

Two gatecrashers made it to Obama under the rigorous watch of the agents entrusted with the President's safety. Doubtless someone was reprimanded pretty strongly, yet access to the President is easier than access to heaven. How are you going to manage that one? No gatecrashers.

It won't have anything to do with St Peter's decision either. There is only one way to gain entry.

Jesus told the thief on the cross,"Today you will be with me in paradise." Jesus is the only one by whom any of us will enter.

Capital What!

Safe

The next day I saw the fishing boat safe in the inner harbour. It had reached its desired haven. What an evocative word. Haven.

They say sailors in a storm and soldiers in fox holes all pray. To quote someone else:-

" They mounted up to the heavens and went down to the depths; in their peril their courage melted away. They reeled and staggered like drunken men; they were at their wits' end. Then they cried out to the LORD in their trouble, and he brought them out of their distress. He stilled the storm to a whisper; the waves of the sea were hushed. They were glad when it grew calm, and he guided them to their desired haven. (NIV) Psalm 107

I wonder if the fisherman prayed? It often takes a crisis before people pray.

Why wait?

Capital What!

Beached.

Strong gusts of wind pushed against me as I walked by the harbour this afternoon. On the beach a 30 foot fishing boat was stuck fast. The weekend's gales were severe. A lone sole was using a spade to dig around the boat. Maybe the tide will do the rest. I hope to see it gone tomorrow.

You can hear the sound of the wind and see its results but where it comes from and where it goes, who can say.

Ever asked, "Is there a God?" Some answer, "Unless I see, I won't belive." Hey; what about the wind?

Capital What!

Is anyone there?

Helping to deliver some furniture once, the van blocked a drive. A frail voice started calling out, "Is anyone there? Is anyone there?" We were. The van was moved. Tranquillity returned.

So I ask the same, "Is anyone there?"

Capital what!