Carringtons Restaurant, The Atlantic Hotel, was the scene of a lively worship service, followed by a thought-provoking message. In exploring the book of the prophet Zephaniah, Rev. Peter Richmond had plenty of evidence of how these had been fulfilled. God's judgement had started with his own people, Israel; now it was extending to four surrounding nations - north, south, east and west. The prophecies were of specific disasters, and Egypt, Babylon, Assyria and the Greek empire all had their parts to play. Today the areas who suffered these judgements have familiar names: Gaza. The lesson from all these judgements was that everyone in the world, regardless of race or faith, has a certain sense of right and wrong, and no-one deliberately doing evil, especially by mistreating God's chosen people, should expect to escape the punishment of God. Peter demonstrated his understanding that these prophecies were not only intended for history, but will one day be fulfilled in their entirety. He suggested that for certain prophecies to be fulfilled, there may need to be a Palestinian nation. He also said: "God keeps his word. Everything looks forward to judgement day. The Lord will establish his rule on earth and Israel will have its full borders restored. "In those days, total destruction will come upon terrorists, but those who seek peace will be regarded as God's own people; members of his kingdom Israel." A petition was signed by everyone showing prayer and support for persecuted Christians. The church also decided recently to send a donation to provide 120 Chinese Bibles, helping to meet a massive demand from the underground church in China. Hesed meet every Sunday at 4.15 pm in Carringtons. Telephone 01646 681805 for details on any of the above.
