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Life is full of unexpected twists and turns, often presenting challenges that can leave you feeling overwhelmed. However, when you run out of ideas, it doesn’t mean there’s no way forward: there’s always something you haven’t thought of.
The Rev Charles Burton reflects on where our trust lies.
Just now, realising the washing machine had developed a fault and remembering it may still be covered by a white goods cover plan, I rang the 0800 number but got no reply and was even cut off! My mind started racing-‘are they out of business…is the protection plan worthless…what now?’ Do you relate to the feelings of vulnerability, loss, and not knowing which way to turn? We often start thinking of the worst case, a new machine costing hundreds!
I wonder if prayer features in our toolkit for these and other of life’s joys and challenges along our daily paths. Is it a fallback, a last resort, or maybe a constant companion, offering our hopes, fears, requests, and words of thanks upwards? When we don’t seem to receive a clear answer or response to our prayers, does that leave us at a loss, in more silence, with a pondering heart? Do we begin to doubt and ask if God cares, if He is there for us or even interested in what we are facing?
Would you believe it, after a few more attempts, the machine rectified itself, and all seemed well: the protection company even rang me back saying ‘we missed your call!’ Heyho – all’s well that ends well.
Some verses from Psalm 109 read:
V1 ‘My God, whom I praise, do not be silent…’
V4 ‘…I am a man of prayer’
V31’…He stands at the right hand of the needy, to save their lives from those who would condemn them.’
May we be like the Psalmist – trusting in the power of prayer to bring our needs and very selves close to God our helper who saves and loves us.
Prayers for you that Easter hope and joy would be yours this springtime.
Rev Charles Burton
Published in the April 2026 edition of the Parish magazines.
You can order Parish magazines, which contain additional articles, by visiting All Saints or Christ Church
Main photograph courtesy of Unsplash.