However, it is too big to fit inside the existing boathouse. So, at a cost of around £100,000, this new facility will be an all-round improvement for the benefit of the volunteer crew, and for accommodating and launching the lifeboat to respond to emergency calls for help at sea.
“Saving lives at sea” has become a familiar slogan for the RNLI, and indeed that is its mission. Since its foundation in 1824 its crews have saved over 140,000 lives, some in the most difficult and dangerous conditions. Probably very few of us have had to call on them, but those who have, and have been rescued, are overwhelmingly grateful.
Most of us will not need to be saved from the perils of the sea but, if we do get into danger, we are reassured that help is available. However, all of us do need saving from the danger that our sin puts us in. The good news is that help and rescue are at hand.
As with the lifeboat service, salvation from sin’s consequences is free to us although costly to the One who provided it. Money can buy a lifeboat and its gear but it could never buy salvation. The cost of this was “the precious blood of Christ” (1 Peter 1:19).
Lifeboatmen are willing to risk their lives to save others from damage and death at sea. Jesus was willing to give His life to save us from sin and eternal death in hell.
“Mayday, Mayday” – the recognised call – or any other signal will summon help. Sadly, by the time the lifeboat is launched and help arrives at the casualty, it may be too late. When you call upon Jesus Christ, He will immediately save you. The Bible says, “Whoever calls on the name of the LORD shall be saved” (Romans 10:13).
He is able and willing to save any and all who admit their sin and danger and put their trust in Him, in the same way that a person who is in danger puts their whole trust in their rescuer.
The Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of God, died on the cross to save us. He now lives in heaven, ready to hear us when we call upon Him for the salvation which we need. I did that years ago. Have you?
