What a Difference a Day Makes

Recently while speaking in church, I mentioned that there are a few significant days in our lives which for better or worse shape the rest of our lives. Not thinking that one of those days was just around the corner for our family.

On Saturday 12th October my daughter and her husband were involved in a head on car crash on the A38. We were called to Derriford Emergency department late that evening to be told that she needed an operation on internal injuries and that there was a spinal fracture. Out of the four people involved in the accident she was the worst off. At the time of writing she is improving and will soon be able to have some food. The prognosis is good, and she should make a full recovery, but it will take a long time.

This whole experience has made me think and re-evaluate what is really important in life. When you go through an experience like this there are many points of view. Here are two:

1. You were unlucky to be in the wrong place at the wrong time.

2. You are lucky to be alive.

As a believer it has been comforting to know the presence of God and to be aware of His hand upon our family. Jesus came into a world full of bad days. He experienced many sad and traumatic days on this earth. We have a God who has firsthand experience of shock, grief, sadness and loss. I have found tremendous strength and energy from Him during this time.

As a family, we have been amazed at the amount of goodwill towards us, messages of love and practical help whenever we have needed it. So many people wanting to pray (even some who would not normally do so!).

Spending time in hospital, we have become more aware of the amount of suffering some people go through, sometimes alone. Let’s remember those who are struggling with a bad time in life right now. If you are going through a tough time, our prayer is for you, that you will know God’s help and comfort today.

Love to you all and thank you for your kindness.

Martin

Harvest Time

I think Harvest time is one of the best times of the year.

My wife Sharon is a keen gardener and recently we have benefited from all her hard work. We have tomatoes, cucumbers, courgettes, potatoes and runner beans in abundance. Earlier we had peas, broad beans, strawberries and raspberries.

I forgot to mention the carrots, we could never grow carrots! But this year Sharon grew them in a raised bed with amazing results. They are huge and tasty.

Growing things is all about giving. First of all, you have to give some seed to the ground; if you hold on to the seed you will never grow anything. Secondly you have to give your time, time to prepare the ground, plant the seeds, weed and tend the young plants and eventually harvest the produce. If there is no willingness to do all these there will be no harvest. Third, when there is so much produce it is good to share it with others.

It won’t be long before the Christmas season is upon us. If we can harness this concept of giving right through the winter season, then our lives will be much happier. Even giving a smile or allowing someone to go in front of you in a queue.

I have heard the story of two seas. The sea of Galilee has water flowing into it and water flowing out. The sea is teeming with life. The Dead sea only has water flowing in and none flowing out. Nothing lives in that sea.

Jesus came to give to everyone; he gave food, health, hope, purpose and ultimately eternal life. His nature is to give. Following him will help us to have the same attitude.

Try it and see.

Poldark - the final series

This hugely enjoyable series which showcases Cornwall has finally come to an end. As I write the series is part way through. Already several major issues are being aired.

Ross champions the plight of the slaves in Honduras.

Dwight helps George who is suffering from a mental illness as a result of Elizabeth’s (the love of his life) untimely death. Morwenna is still suffering from the after effects of her late husband’s horrendous sexual abuse. People are struggling with lack of money and food.

Demelza has to deal with the introduction of the first paper money and an unruly servant girl. Ross is never willing to give up on a good cause, no matter the cost to himself. The business community was making money out of the slaves and so does not want anything to change. It will do all it can to stop him.

Dwight’s treatment of George is very admirable and brings about a miraculous change in his mental state. Unfortunately, with his recovery, he also regains his mean streak!

Morwenna eventually starts to find peace with her past and is able to find some freedom with husband Drake.

In our lives today we experience many difficulties. God is able to help us through the dark valleys of life, whether that is bereavement, damage from past relationships, financial pressures or something else. Jesus said, “Come to me all who are weighed down with the pressures of life and I will give you rest”. He understands our frustrations – he has been here, he has suffered, he has endured hardship. It is my personal experience that nothing is too hard for God to do. He is willing to help anyone who will ask. It will need patience, healing takes time, but the rewards of trusting in God are very great.