Year's end

Well, at the end of an eventful year; personally, domestically and nationally, it would be typical to try and reflect on what has been and what might be. I’m not going to try – the blog contains sufficient for the year; however, I found this text in my NIV bible (a version for men and containing helpful contributions from men) and thought it might be a useful reflection for anyone to ponder. Happy New Year!

The sooner a man becomes satisfied with what he has and stops comparing his financial scorecard and trophies with those of other men, the better he will feel about himself.

The apostle Paul states: “I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or want” [Philippians 4:11-12].

Men who opt to be satisfied with what they possess will have more time and energy for the kinds of nurturing relationships that will meet their basic needs.

{Stephen Arterburn and David Stoop}

December starts

December is here, and I’ve still a few bits of work to continue with. Just waiting for the inevitable closing in of the weather to bring a halt to my customer’s work. I’m looking forward to some time off – although I have ‘penciled-in’ some home decorating activities during January.

I finished this week with the work at the NT at Snowshill too, so I have some ‘free’ time in the diary now. Perhaps I’ll get out on my own garden and allotment to catch up with the seasonal activities!

November was mostly work – so much so that I’ve realised just how tired I am. Normally I’ll take any / all work in my stride but one job last week consisted of breaking up pruning materials to bag up and after 45 minutes of this (there was a huge amount of material), lets say, exasperation kicked in.. Thought; that if only I had a gofer…, but then I’d have to increase my hourly rate…

We enjoyed a weekend away at Mission Worship at Eastbourne last weekend.

At Woodmancote Church, the leadership team have been working very hard this year on the process of finding a replacement pastor – as Keith ends his time with us on Christmas Day. The leadership team proposed to the congregation that Andrew Hiscock be the new pastor, and after a vote, this proposal was carried. It’ll be sad to see Keith and Ruth leave us, but we will be looking forward as a church to see God’s future work being carried out with Andrew as pastor.

The church has a number of activities happening over the Christmas period, details of which can be found at: www.freechurch.freeserve.co.uk