The UK’s weather conditions were totally disrupted by a two-headed monster when the ‘Beast from the East’ met ‘Storm Emma’ on UK mainland. The Beast from the East saw heavy snow and freezing rain affecting the usual schools, work and homes. It provided opportunities for children off school to have fun in the snow, while commuters faced train delays and cancellations and road users faced heavy delays on major roads and some were even stranded, having no other choice but to abandon their vehicles.
Interestingly, ahead of the severe weather conditions, the Met office issued warnings of the problematic weather we were about to face. As it hit, we were advised to stay in and only venture out if absolutely essential.
We rely heavily on the Met Office to provide accurate forecasts to enable us to plan our days/lives accordingly. However, our present situation is such that the results of the weather have impacted the demands on gas services, meaning we may not have sufficient amounts to meet demands. A number of severe weather warnings for snow, ice and wind are in place for the UK until about Monday. Severe weather warnings mean there is a high potential of risk to live, particularly those living with asthma, who may face an increase in an attack.
Forecasting has often been assigned to weather forecasters, and in the Bible, Jesus talks our shortcomings in this. In Matthew 16:3 ~ “…. ‘There will be a storm today, for the sky is red and threatening.’ Do you know how to discern the appearance of the sky, but cannot discern the signs of the times? As we look around there is so much happening, so many signs that tell us how desperately in need people are of repentance, salvation, revival and refreshing.
In his book “Storm Warning” in 2010, Evangelist the late Billy Graham writes, “There is only one answer to the travail of this present age, and it is found in the ageless pages of God’s Word, the Bible,”
Over the next few days, we are advised to stay warm, keep safe and only travel if absolutely essential. If travelling, to make sure we have the essentials ~ sufficient fuel, warm blanket, hot drink, fully charged mobile phone and a shovel.
This week, let’s also pray that we are spiritually equipped to overcome the ‘storm’ surrounding us and that we may be of help and assistance to others around us.
Stay safe!