Today's message focussed on three less well known mothers from the Bible and their encounters with God through His prophets. Their stories challenge us to reflect on the depth of our connection with God. Do we have a real relationship with Jesus? Do we allow God to use us no matter how 'little' we think we have? Have we made room for Jesus in our life?

Easter is our celebration of sure, lasting hope, that as Jesus came to Mary in a bleak and hopeless situation, so He comes to us - in a personal way and speaks our name. There are three aspects of hope: hope of forgiveness, hope of growth and hope of resurrection. Jesus makes all these possible.

The lion’s den is not a one off event, but the culmination of a life of obedience to God. What character qualities and consistencies can we learn from Daniel? - Exhibit excellence in every environment - Insist on integrity at all times - Devote yourself to spiritual discipline - Turn to your track record of trust in God These are some of the things it takes to be used by God. But when we slip up, God wants to remind us that He’s on our side and wants to make us into a person with qualities like Daniel so we can seize those divine moments today and into the future.

Like Esther, God has a purpose for each one of us. We are here by God’s appointment, in His keeping, under His training for His time (Andrew Murray). But 'hero moments' don’t announce themselves, rather we have to be alert and faithful in the small things so we don’t miss the opportunity. Also, like Esther, we enjoy privileges and have opportunity to speak up for those who are voiceless. Perhaps there is only one person’s voice lacking for justice to come into the world - yours! Finally, we must put our trust in God. To act without relying on God cannot achieve success. Esther said “Yes” to God and changed the course of a nation. God invites us to do the same. One person can make a difference.

There is much to fear in the world, but “Here is God” sums up Psalm 23. The psalm expresses a trusting relationship with God from the perspective of a sheep’s helplessness and need. David knew God as his Shepherd and expresses a reliance on a God who had been faithful in the past and will be into the future. Our society promotes discontentment, but the Shepherd provides all we need and shows us how to make the right choices. Even in the deepest shadow He protects us and promises we’ll never be alone. God gives us every blessing and is totally committed to us.