Day 107: Reflecting on the past (1980)

Join with Salvationists of the Wales Division for day 107 of 150 days of prayer.

• 'Everyone that the Lord has rescued should tell others. Tell them how he has rescued you from the enemy's power' (Psalm 107:2, EasyEnglish Bible). 

1980

Commissioners Mike and Joan Parker (R) write:

‘In response to the Aberfan disaster on 21 October 1966, Cadet George Price – who together with his wife had been appointed to Treharris Corps for their summer appointment, and whose district included Aberfan – commenced what was to become the Annual Aberfan Festival, which raised funds for work in the community. 

‘The fifth anniversary of the festival took place in 1980. Throughout the years, this event received the support of Salvationists from well outside the area, including the band from Bristol Easton Corps. The Aberfan Community Centre was filled to capacity for many years. The festival was a joyous occasion, attracting many local residents, but also included moments of reflection regarding the tragedy of 1966 when 144 people died, 116 of whom were children from Pantglas Junior School.’

In 1980, Dr Martyn Lloyd-Jones preached his last sermon… A former Harley Street physician, he brought his undoubted diagnostic skills to the pulpit. He was wary of emotionalism but was passionate for the gospel – his preaching ministry being described as ‘logic on fire’. Christopher Catherwood wrote: 

‘Lloyd-Jones was a rare combination of great intellect and fiery emotion, and it was these two strengths that gave his life and ministry its special power and impact. It goes back to his Welsh upbringing – indeed, he cannot really be understood in human terms apart from his Welshness. He had a prodigious knowledge of Church history (by which he set much store). 

‘Throughout his ministry, Dr Lloyd-Jones was to urge Christians again and again to know their history, especially that of the Church.’

His respect for Church history is evident in an extract from his foreword to Evangelicalism in England by EJ Poole-Connor: ‘We have a long and glorious history which did not start with the visits of DL Moody to this country, nor even with John Wesley. We are inheritors and custodians of a priceless heritage.’

As we consider our own long and glorious history, we do well to remember that we also are inheritors and custodians of a priceless heritage. The story has a remarkable past and a future yet to be written.

Prayer

• Give thanks for our inheritance in Christ and know that he will be our source of joy and strength as we move into the future.