Northern Hemisphere time of Spring & War in Ukraine

Normally in the Northern Hemisphere at least, this is a time of spring, renewal and hope, a timely reminder of the coming of God’s kingdom and the restoration of all things. But this year just seems a little different. The very comfortable world which many of us inhabit, with its freedom to worship and the security it confers, has been around for so long that we have forgotten it is not permanent. Recent months, however, have started to show us that the societies and civilisations that man has created are only temporary and will pass.

Across Europe and the developed world more generally, things are changing quickly. War in Ukraine has brought into sharp focus the reality of life. Energy prices have increased dramatically as Russian gas and oil supplies are reduced or halted. Heating bills are going up dramatically and motorists know how costly it is to put fuel into cars (and fuel cannot always be found at petrol stations). This has an impact which feeds through to higher food prices, but it is not just higher prices that are an issue – supplies themselves are in doubt. In January, before Russia invaded Ukraine, Reuters predicted that this year Ukraine would account for 12% of global wheat exports, 16% for corn, 18% for barley and 19% for rapeseed. It is unlikely these levels will be produced, and when coupled with sanctions on Russia’s harvests there is a serious expectation of shortages. This is not something many of us have experienced before.

If things are to get tough, always have in mind the ability of the Almighty to provide and protect His children. This does not mean we are unaffected by the world’s troubles – just ask our brothers and sisters in Ukraine, Russia, East Africa and many other places. But we have the great advantage of knowing that this is not the end.

“For he delivers the needy when he calls, the poor and him who has no helper. He has pity on the weak and the needy, and saves the lives of the needy. From oppression and violence he redeems their life, and precious is their blood in his sight. May there be abundance of grain in the land; on the tops of the mountains may it wave; may its fruit be like Lebanon; and may people blossom in the cities like the grass of the field! May all kings fall down before him, all nations serve him!” (Psalm 72)

We must not lose sight of the vision before us, nor of our Saviour who has secured the way to salvation.

This month’s newsletter contains the following items:

• Signs of the Times – “Times and seasons”
• Special Offers – ‘The Captive Conscience’
• Magazines:  The Christadelphian Magazine & The Testimony + Faith Alive
• Second hand books – Children’s
• Outdoor Centre
• Event cancellation
• John’s Gospel – the marriage at Cana
• Online and other events

As always, all our plans and endeavours are intended for the glory of Almighty God and are subject to His blessing.

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Additional reading

1. Fast-rising energy prices attract China to capitalise on them
2. After a virus pandemic an energy disease
3. Putin lays out his demands in Turkish phone call
4. Rishi Sunak warns Britons to brace for even higher energy costs in autumn
5. Israel ready to export gas to Europe via Egypt in September