Caen Hill Locks

The route of the Kennet and Avon Canal has a significant problem: it ascends the steep Caen Hill. This is tolerable on foot and unproblematic by horse, but for canal barges, it is something of an obstacle. Scottish engineer John Rennie the Elder's solution back in 1810 was to construct a series of 29 locks which would allow canal traffic to ascend Caen Hill with its rise of 237 feet. It really is a wonderful testimony to human engineering and a curious place to visit, with these painted, gigantic locks all in a row.

A still greater challenge was that faced by a loving but just Creator God. How can He get fallen human beings into heaven? How can He share their company while not ignoring their corruption, thus offending His own perfect justice? The incredible plan He devised we now call the gospel and it really is good news. God the Son became a man and died a substitutionary death on the cross, granting forgiveness and redemption to all who would come to Him believing. Amazing though Caen Hill Locks are, the gospel of Christ bears yet more amazing results: sinners readmitted to Eden.