Happy New Year to you all!
I can remember when I was a boy calculating how old I would be in the year 2,000. Well this year, I’ll be 1.5 times as old as that. As they say; “Time waits for no-one”. Hopefully, this is an encouragement to me and us all to make the most of every day.
How might we do that? One way is to try to ensure that we make the most of every opportunity and not let setbacks and difficulties hold us back. Let me illustrate this in a light-hearted way by comparing my day at the end of November to that of our cat.
November 30th saw the first snow of the winter. Our cat was desperate to go outside and explore. However, she put one paw outside the door, realized how cold it was and turned round and went back to bed for the day. I was due to go to Newcastle and visit our daughter for the day. I was aware that 2-5cm of snow was forecast. When I stepped out of the front door at 8.00am, the wind chill hit me. But I was braver than the cat (!) and carried on. When I arrived in Newcastle there was a fair bit of snow already. As I ran to where our daughter had parked I stepped in a puddle of slush and discovered a hole in my shoe. As we walked to a pub for lunch my sock got wetter and wetter.
However, by braving the elements (and a wet foot) I had a wonderful day in Newcastle with my daughter. An opportunity taken despite the setbacks. The cat apparently slept all day and missed her chance to explore.
I wonder what opportunities lie ahead of you this year. Let’s be courageous and pursue them even if we face setbacks. I am, of course, well aware that a bit of snow is insignificant compared to some of the issues which some will face this year.
Whatever you do this year may you know Jesus’ promise to all who believe and trust in him. His last words before he returned to heaven after his resurrection were; “Remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age”. If you would like prayer for any issues you face, please contact me.
With my prayers for you all for 2018 and beyond,
Jon Randall (Vicar) 07939 449255; vicar@saintpeters.co.uk
Read this article in the Yaxley Gazette.