Thought for the month - Reverend Jeremy Haswell

Dear Grayshott - Jeremy Haswell

With the coming of the new academic year, there is all the hope of a fresh start, and many things are starting again. The general longing for the rhythm of life to start beating is very strong, and mercifully this is coming, and with the roll out of the vaccine, many things can, but we can’t throw all caution to the wind!

We are all watching the unfolding of the international picture, natural disasters, and the developments of the situation in Afghanistan are all concerns. Sometimes the word ‘Biblical’ is used for the climate, or disease, or disasters, and what people mean by this is that the situations are out of the control of humanity. What is also implied by this language is that in the Bible plagues wars and disasters came as a challenge to human behaviour, pride and arrogance, particularly when associated with removing God from the picture. These challenges came to see if God’s people would return to prayer, and to ask for God’s help. During the second World War, there was a National call to prayer by Winston Churchill, which was heeded by many. When feeling overwhelmed by the events of the world, it is good to remember that prayer is simply talking to God, trusting that your words are being heard by God (that is the faith element).

Covid has caused many people to reflect on their lives, and ask some deep questions. This has left a longing for more than material things. The need for company, and relationships has been emphasized. Costs to emotional health and to children who have lacked socialisation will take time to be addressed. For our young people, all this it is made worse by the pressure to present a perfect front on social media. The call to reflect and pray is still here, and some of you may feel that this is something you want to explore more. You can find us on our YouTube channel, St Luke’s Grayshott, or on our website . Discover what is on, and when, so that you can be part of the community here. We are looking to find God in our everyday lives, and to understand the message of Jesus, who addressed the issues of the heart so directly in his teaching. As we restart things, let us think about restarting with God.

Do also pray for our Schools, our businesses, and all the people of the parish who are working together to bring a healthy respect for one another, and to recognise that the best way forward is to combine our resources, and share skills and build one another up. At St Luke’s we are seeking to keep our feet on the ground, keep connected to our long history as the church, through studying the Bible, and seek a future that will flourish through innovation and vision, all are welcome to join us. Our love to you all,