As we move into the second half of 2013, for many there is a sense of bewilderment as to how quickly the past six months have gone. “Tempus fugit” (time flies) according to the old Latin phrase and yet if we look back with a forensic eye, we will discover much has happened since 1st January 2013! For some that time will be marked by a happy occasion which they will fondly remember for years to come – perhaps the birth of a child or grandchild, a significant birthday, a wedding anniversary, the successful completion of a project or course of study, the list goes on… For others, it may be recalled as a time of upheaval and great sadness – the death of a loved one, a health crisis for oneself or someone close, the loss of a job, moving home – again the list goes on and on. In whichever category of experiences we may find ourselves – and many will have experienced both – we should try to ensure that we use the happier occasions to their maximum in order to help us through the more difficult ones. Also, concentrating on the positive not only helps us to a better sense of wellbeing but also helps us to be more thankful for all the blessings we enjoy. And as Christians we believe that all the good things in life we enjoy come as gifts from God. By taking the time to appreciate these gifts, we can become a more thankful people and do what St. Paul wrote to the Ephesians, “sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs among yourselves, singing and making melody to the Lord in your hearts, giving thanks to God the Father at all times and for everything in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” (Ephesians 5:19-20).
July and August are deemed to be our prime holiday season. Most mid-week parochial activities have been put on hold to resume again in the autumn. Families with school-going children are enjoying a welcome break from the frantic round of school runs and after-school activities. For some, thoughts have turned to sea-side visits, picnics and barbeques and for the luckier ones, a holiday further afield may be planned. Without these times of rest and relaxation with a total break from routine, life would so much more difficult. Those with more time flexibility often try to avoid going away over these months, but as a break from routine is just as important for everyone, an autumn break to shorten the winter may be a suitable option.
As I have mentioned on previous years, although we may be looking forward to taking a break this summer, we are very fortunate that we have a God that never does. If we would but remember this, we would not forget to attend Church Sunday by Sunday. And wherever we may find ourselves this summer, we can be assured of the warmest of welcomes if we join a local worshipping community for their Services. In return, we here in Tullow look forward to welcoming any visitors who may be passing or visiting friends or relatives in our area. May I take this opportunity to wish you all a pleasant and restful summer, and let us hope we get plenty of seasonal weather.
With every blessing,
John.
Rev’d John Tanner. Tel: 086 3021376 / 289 3154