Paul travels to Rome by sea and is shipwrecked.
In Acts ch 27 we read of this difficult voyage. A fierce wind caught the ship and for 14 days they ran before the storm in fear, losing all hope of life. But Paul prayed to God, then broke bread, encouraging everyone to eat and not lose hope. In Hebrews 6 we read, “God encourages us to grasp the hope set before us. It is like an anchor for our lives, an anchor safe and sure.”
There was only one hymn to close the service with:-
Will your anchor hold in the storms of life, when the clouds unfold their wings of strife?
When the strong tides lift, and the cables strain, will your anchor drift or firm remain?
Will your anchor hold in the straits of fear, when the breakers roar and the reef is near?
While the surges rage and the wild winds blow, shall the angry waves then your bark o’erflow?
Will your anchor hold in the floods of death, when the waters cold chill your latest breath?
On the rising tide you can never fail, while your anchor holds within the veil.
Will your eyes behold through the morning light the city of gold and the harbour bright?
Will you anchor safe by the heavenly shore, when life’s storms are past for evermore?
We have an anchor that keeps the soul, steadfast and sure while the billows roll;
fastened to the Rock which cannot move, grounded firm and deep in the Saviour’s love!
Hymn (CH4 no. 737) by Priscilla Jane Owens