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Good morning. ÌýÌýMany of us may recall the dreadful day in January 1986 when just after take-off, the space shuttle, Challenger, experienced what was described as a 'major malfunction'. Few who saw the explosion broadcast live on television will forget the sight of the huge curling plume of smoke in the sky, a sure sign of catastrophic failure.Ìý

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The space shuttle programme was stopped and given the devastating loss of seven astronauts, including a school teacher, it would, perhaps, have been understandable if the programme had been axed. Yet, two years later, on this day in 1988, a new space shuttle, Discovery, was launched.Ìý

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I am in awe of those, who are willing to explore new frontiers. Over the years there have been many courageous scientists, doctors, and journalists, who have ventured forward, often putting their own lives in jeopardy for the good of others.Ìý

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While some of us are not great risk-takers, there is a sense in which at some point we are all required to step out into the unknown:Ìý a new job, or project at work, moving house. Life is never free from change and chance.Ìý Sometimes it may seem that the path we take is filled with twists and turns, and there are times when all we can do is stop and wait.Ìý

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In those waiting moments, we may feel out of control and anxious. When I have felt like that, I often recall some of the words of Psalm 46

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ÌýGod is a refuge and strength. A very present help in trouble… Be still and know that I am God. I am exalted among the nations. I am exalted in the earth. The Lord of hosts is with us.

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Loving God, we pray for guidance for those who are seeking to make choices for the future. Help us all to put our trust in you, our refuge and strength. Amen