In the first of a new Bible series on miraculous births, the pastor, Rev. Peter Richmond, talked about Sarah and Abraham's reaction when they were told they would have a son in their old age:
"Sarah was barren. No wonder she found it hard to believe the promise of God; no wonder she laughed scornfully; no wonder she lied about it afterwards when the Lord asked her why she laughed. She was afraid to believe.
"Abraham and Sarah, the models of faith, are presented here as models of disbelief. So there's hope for us, their spiritual descendants, who also find faith difficult.
"When someone comes to speak a good word over our life of new beginnings and a bright future, aren't we quick to laugh off the message of hope, instead choosing to stay with what we know is familiar? Casting our gaze downward seems easier than looking upward toward God in heaven for hope that blessings could indeed come our way. "Is anything too hard for the Lord? God meets us in the barren places of our lives.
"Sarah and Abraham named their child Isaac, which means laughter. And Sarah said, 'God has brought laughter for me; everyone who hears will laugh with me.' What a great reversal."
Hesed Christian Fellowship hold services each Sunday at 4.15 pm in Carringtons Restaurant, below the Atlantic Hotel. For further information, please telephone 01646 681805 or visit http://www.hesed.co.uk">www.hesed.co.uk