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As I sit here writing I am actually on my way to Switzerland! Having successfully mastered the train and underground journeys (equipped with mask, of course), I am now at Heathrow airport waiting to board the Swiss flight to Zürich. I am able to enter the country thanks to my Swiss passport, and if I have to go into quarantine on my return it will have been worth it.
A couple of days ago I became a septuagenarian - yes, I joined the ‘three score years and ten’ brigade! I was quite relieved that there was no chance of a surprise party and spent a quiet day at home, except for ‘garden visits’ from Graham’s family. I was able to reflect on all the opportunities, adventures and experiences I had and remembered the many people I had the privilege of meeting. Not all the experiences were good, but through them all I had the assurance that my Lord was carrying me through.
A friend, now also in her 70s, sent me a message that 70 is the new 40, so the fact that I had posted this on Facebook a few days earlier made me smile ...
A couple of days ago I became a septuagenarian - yes, I joined the ‘three score years and ten’ brigade! I was quite relieved that there was no chance of a surprise party and spent a quiet day at home, except for ‘garden visits’ from Graham’s family. I was able to reflect on all the opportunities, adventures and experiences I had and remembered the many people I had the privilege of meeting. Not all the experiences were good, but through them all I had the assurance that my Lord was carrying me through.
A friend, now also in her 70s, sent me a message that 70 is the new 40, so the fact that I had posted this on Facebook a few days earlier made me smile ...
To be honest, I have sometimes struggled a little with lockdown ... waking up at silly o’clock and not being able to get back to sleep - that sometimes happens anyway, but more often over the past weeks. I find myself turning things over and over in my mind and must admit that doubts sometimes creep in, leaving me discouraged and lacking motivation ... not like me at all! It’s then that I turn to the Lord, seeking his comfort and reassurance that things will be ok. I came across this quotation, which sums up my thoughts quite aptly and hope it will also speak to you.
It is his amazing grace, free for all, which carries me through. At present I feel more positive ... looking forward to hugging my children and grandchildren, breathing in the clean, fresh air and enjoying the beautiful countryside.
So I take courage in the verse from Jeremiah 29, in the knowledge that God wants only the best for his children.
So I take courage in the verse from Jeremiah 29, in the knowledge that God wants only the best for his children.
70? It’s only a number ... bring it on!
Greetings to you all, and have a good day!
Note: This series of 'Pause for Thought' started on Monday 4th May. To find these previous thoughts go to the Archive section of the website listed under the 'more.....' tab at the top of the page. On the 'Daily Pause for Thought' section of the website we will only keep 2 weeks of contributions before putting them into the Archive.
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In this current situation when our church doors are closed to our normal activities but our work to support those in need continues, our normal source of funds (Sunday Tithes and Offerings) have reduced dramatically. We need your help, so that we continue to be ready to meet the ongoing needs of our community that will undoubtedly impact beyond this lock down period. If you are willing to help please visit our Just Giving Page to make a donation to this work. https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/bedfordsa