July & Aug: Thoughts from Huw

 Dear Friends

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One of the things that makes me feel anxious is flying. If I can avoid it, then I will. I much prefer travelling on a bus from the Newcastle to Wales than flying on a plane. My stress on a plane really begins when one of the attendants says something like this “We’d like your attention for a few minutes while we show you some of the safety features of this aircraft…” The attendant then shows you how to fasten the seat belt, and advises you to keep it fastened during the flight. You are told the number and location of the emergency exits. And how, in the event of a sudden loss of cabin pressure, an individual oxygen mask will be lowered in front of you. You are told that under the seat there is a life-jacket for use in the event of having to ditch into the ocean. The idea behind all this is to help passengers be prepared for the unexpected. But few pay attention to what the attendant is saying. If anything, it serves only to further unnerve the nervous.

In the parable of the waiting servants Jesus gives us some instructions regarding the flight of life – a flight in which all of us are involved. He tells us to be prepared for the unexpected. Like faithful servants we should keep ourselves in a state of readiness/preparedness. Not in fear, but in trust and hope.

The uncertainty of life should not prevent us from enjoying life in the present. We should live our lives to the very full. Life for so many is too short. So, let’s cherish and enjoy life in all its fullness.

All of us would like to be able to end our lives with our plans carried out and our work done. But we don’t know if we will have that chance. What we do have is an opportunity to be faithful in our responsibilities and commitments on a daily basis, like the servant Jesus spoke about. Then we can go into the unknown, trusting in God’s gracious and loving care. 

Mother Teresa said “We are not called to be successful, only to be faithful”.

For those of you who are going away over the summer months, have a lovely time and a good rest.

God Bless
Huw