...the Rescuer

An outstretched arm, a lifebuoy, a helicopter hovering above a rocky mountainous ridge. A flashing light signalling speed is required or the siren wailing to make way.

All are recognised as a means or end to a rescue situation, the alarm has rung out and a response is on its way.

What happens if we don’t know a rescue is required or that rescue actions are imminent? And what if rescue comes and we don’t recognise it, we ignore it, turn away waiting for something more real?

Throughout the Old Testament God gives His people the opportunity to take heed to rescue plans and turns lives around to follow His path. Despite endless rescues God ultimately sacrifices His own son Jesus to save mankind.

I cannot imagine that level of sacrifice, just to rescue me.

Not only that but I’m sure most of the time I am oblivious to any rescue plan, unless it hits me full in the face with bells and whistles.

Rescue requires courage on behalf of the despatched emergency team and belief and trust on the behalf of the rescuer. What situation will the team find on arrival and what remedy will the patient require?

God knows us more than we know ourselves and so can pre-empt the emergency situations we find ourselves in but I wonder what methods He uses to help our recovery. Sometimes we perhaps have an epiphany and are miraculously saved at other times the process seems to take much longer. We must learn the long road to recovery. Other times ‘rescue’ comes and we ignore it.

And so what are our expectations of The Rescuer(s)? That they will have all the answers and reveal the rescue process in detail as it unfolds? Probably not… The details may well be gory, gut wrenching and with an unknown outcome. Plus the patient has their own part to play – to give up or fight with resilience.

God has created us to have free will and participate within His plan. He is the ultimate Rescuer, we can choose to alert Him to the rescue we desire and recognise the rescue plan He puts in place.

One of the first films I remember wanting to see at the cinema was Disney’s “The Rescuers”…

“A girl in danger... A cry for help... And two marvellous mice, who will risk anything to save her!”

Unfortunately my visit to the cinema was before pre-booking and “The Rescuers” was full.  My second choice was “Abba; The Movie”.  I’m still an Abba fan today (sshhhh) with the ultimate film track being “Thank You for the Music”.

So Lord I give you the predicament today, I cry for your help to recognise when, where and what rescue is needed and continue to give you the thanks for the rhythm and music of life.