So, unexpectedly, for someone who is in the middle of the busiest season at work, is poised to move house (already packing), needs to navigate a family Christmas, say goodbye to a whole lot of very lovely people, try not to leave things too untidy, is expecting a new Grandson in a week and will start a new job shortly – unexpectedly I have spent many hours this week trawling the internet for puppies. A sort of obsession has come over me. Whilst I do other things, secretly I am thinking – Sprocker? Cocker? Health checked? Vaccinated? Ready now? Ready early January? – its madness really and yet and yet….

I’m not sure, but I think it’s something about wanting to know, for sure, that ‘Joy’ lies ahead. Do you ever feel like that and what do you do? Plant bulbs? Write letters, lobby your MP, book a holiday or order new wool or needles? I think you should write in and let Sheila know –

Ultimately, in the fullness of time, joy does lie ahead, which is why we need not be afraid of death. But being a Christian human does not promise that life and the year 2026, will be easy or jolly. However, it does promise a presence, sometimes felt, sometimes not. The presence of God in each moment.

As I leave, I want to thank all of you for teaching me, forgiving me, praying and working with me and for the pockets of joy we have shared on the way. I want to leave you this assurance: you are beloved, there is never a moment that you are on your own.

Each moment of life, holding God. Each moment, in fact, a God bearer, like his mother Mary.
Sometimes you might say ‘Hail’ to the moment you are in. And know that whether you feel it or not, that moment is full of grace for the Lord is with it. And with you, in it, too.

Go well,