Holidays, Weddings and a New Church Year
Deb and I have just returned from a restful holiday in the beautiful city of Valletta in Malta. This was a timely break after the excitement and busyness of the previous weeks, when we celebrated the marriage of our youngest son Sam to Grace. This involved not just one, but two wedding celebrations, with a traditional Nigerian ceremony on one weekend and the church service the following Saturday. Both days were wonderful moments of coming before God with family and friends to mark and then celebrate the marriage of these two young people.
While we were away, Deb and I enjoyed reflecting on these very special family times. But we also noted that the last church year has been a demanding one for us personally, with my father passing away at the beginning of this year and Deb’s parents also facing ever increasing health issues. As the younger generation starts out on married life, our parents face the challenge of their later years. Like many others our age, we often feel the tension as we endeavour to support our children and their families while also caring for our parents.
Having taken holiday late in August, the new church year was upon us the moment we returned. As we begin this autumn term, we are grateful to God that King’s has recovered from the legacy of Covid. I am looking forward to speaking on Vision Sunday, 24th September, when I will be sharing some exciting new initiatives. The Newfrontiers world also springs back into life for us soon, with our annual international conference in Cyprus now only 4 weeks away. That will then be quickly followed by a ministry trip to the States. Ministry life is full but rewarding! It will be Christmas before we know it…
Through all these times we remain confident in the One who is constant and faithful, a strong tower in the ebb and flow of life. Seasons come and go, but He stands forever. So we approach the start of this new church year with faith, trusting that He will guide our steps on every point of the journey.
