Boredom buster - 4

The thought of isolation is a difficult one.
Letters and postcards always bring a smile to my face.

Are there people who you think might appreciate something dropping through their letterbox?

While isolation restrictions allow it, why not send them something to give them something unexpected and cheery on what might be a fairly bleak day?
(Remember not to lick the envelopes though! And if you have any symptoms, switch to email or phone if you can :)   )

Photo of the day - 4

Today is St Joseph of Nazareth's saint day, so a photo that included him seemed fitting!


I've been wondering about all those people who have cared for, supported, and taught me over the years, and prayerfully giving thanks for them.

It's made me wonder where and who I learned certain mannerisms, phrases and ways of doing things from... looking carefully, I can identify all the key people who have helped form me into the person I am today in what I do and how I look at the world.

[Photo shows an icon of the Holy Family]

The light shines in the darkness

'Churches Together' is precisely what we should be.
'Churches Together in England' are calling for a symbol of prayer and hope this Sunday evening at 7 pm, with as many people as possible putting a lit candle in a window.
In this time of crisis, symbols of hope seem more important than ever.
Details can be found here: National call to prayer

A few weeks ago I told children in a school assembly my favourite prayer. It's simple, but requires a candle (or other light). It's my favourite for three reasons: 

- It encompasses everything you might want to pray for, in just a few words.

- It's short and easy to remember, so can be used whether you have too much to say, whether you simply can't find any words, or anything in between.

- It's simple, so can be used with all ages.

A tiny light; a tiny prayer, for God's blessing everywhere. Amen.

For a musical interlude today, what about something that's not traditionally used for worship, but fits nevertheless, and seems especially topical at the moment?

Nothing else matters

(Not written from a religious viewpoint, but finding God in the 'everyday' is foundational to our faith.)

[Image shows the 'Churches together in England' logo and a brief description of the national call to prayer]

Boredom buster - 3

Social distancing, and looming self-isolation, have made me rethink what I take for granted. I've just sat down with a cup of tea and taken time to really appreciate the amazing thing that tea is. Not to have it alongside or as an accompaniment, but to just enjoy and appreciate. 

Why not do similar? :)

Yes, the tea is very pale...don't worry, it's meant to be. It's white jasmine tea. One of my favourites, always saved for when I have time to sit down and properly relax with it.

I was also reminded of the wonderful luxuries of having a sofa to sit on while I drink, being able to afford to boil the kettle, having somebody here to make a second cup for, and the comforting (and lively) company of our border collie puppy. As I drank my tea I remembered in prayer everyone who is finding themselves in lonely, fearful, unsafe or dark places at the moment. 

[Photo shows a teapot with two tea bowls full of white jasmine tea]

Photo of the day - 3

When vibrancy and life meet solid barriers.

I've been wondering:

How will the barriers imposed by self isolation and the suspension of public worship lead to new creativity and ways of being community?

Will this crisis lead to a fundamental and long-lasting improvement in how we all view society and our relationships with each other?

[Photo shows part of a forsythia plant against the background of a brick wall]

Sing to the Lord a new song

The Psalms are a wonderful resource for every kind of situation. It's amazing how often the psalm set for the day says something topical.
Today, as we are encouraged to practise social distancing, the psalm at morning prayer included 'my friend and companions stand apart from my affliction; my neighbours stand far off'.

It reminded me of other times that have stuck with me, like when my wife decided to go for a bath and say evening pray while she was there. While lying back and enjoying a peaceful soak, she found herself reading 'Save me, O God, for the waters have come up, even to my neck.'




Given all the advice about washing recently, how about this as a musical suggestion for today?
When Jesus washed...



Disclaimer: Jesus washes away our sins, but it's entirely on us to wash germs away!
Here's a good timing technique :)

[Image shows the Lord's Prayer split up across a twelve step handwashing technique guide]

Boredom buster - 2

With the prospect of staying indoors looming, what about exploring ways of getting out without going outside?

If museums are your thing, why not try a virtual tour? Here's a list of museums you can visit online:
Virtual museums

Or if you'd rather explore the world and like a puzzle, why not try this free online game?
Geoguessr