Did you enjoy the Coronation weekend? The people I’ve spoken to, have had mixed reactions. As for me, I’ve never before appreciated the pageantry of state occasions. But this time was different.
I wanted to share why I found it exciting. I bet you’re sick of debates about the value of the monarchy. So, I wrote a short story instead, with my comments at the end. Hope you like it!
Author Archives: johnhearson
Celebrating our Bronze Award
Something to feel proud of. My church, St John’s Rastrick, has just achieved the Eco church Bronze Award.
I feel like we’ve just arrived at Base Campo, with the summit of Everest towering way above us. But looking back, we’ve come a long way up.
But, does it make a ha’porth of difference?
New Life, New Hope
Do you become excited as Spring arrives? Welcoming the newly emerging blooms in the garden is like welcoming guests to a party!
The new life and hope of Easter and the risen Jesus is mirrored by nature. It’s a hope that men and women need more than ever before!
Good Friday – A Rubbish Tale
How can Good Friday be so called, when it’s all about one of the world’s most gruesome ways of killing people? A visit to a Veolia plant where filthy rubbish is transformed, gave me an excellent illustration of what Jesus did for us on the Cross. It was also a most interesting and enjoyable experience!
An Anchor in the Storm
Not a believer? Perhaps give this post a miss? Hold on! Might you be missing out on life’s best open secret?
We’ve been studying Hebrews in our Home Group at church. It’s not easy to understand. But it’s richly rewarding. And it’s got lots to say to us in our bizarre 21st century world. Especially in tough times.
Half Term ‘holiday’ in South London
Did you read my previous, Valentine’s Day post? Hope you enjoy this further light-hearted interlude from my usual heavy topics…
Being a Grandparent is a privilege, a source of endless fun, and a way to stay young. Our son and daughter-in-law say they admire our energy. BUT, unlike us, they can’t go home to collapse once the half term break comes to an end!
On St Valentine’s Day
This year I felt overcome with gratitude towards the lady who has shared my life since 1975. In an age where many feel marriage is too difficult to be a realistic proposition, I wanted to express my own feelings towards Jane.
Self Improvement and Dark Materials
I notice a host of articles and book titles about Self Improvement. They generally assume that faith is irrelevant, as if those ancient concepts of sin, grace and atonement are irrelevant. Or, some would say, harmful.
I believe Jesus teaches us a great deal about self-improvement, but that you have to stop trying!! A point totally missed by Philip Pullman’s Magisterium in His Dark Materials. Have a read and see what you think!
Bad Cop, Good Cop…
In contrast to the miserable outcomes from COP27, the UN’s Biodiversity Conference last month (COP15) fared much better. Or rather, the planet may do so. I feel it’s important to appreciate good news in that it spurs us on in our own quests to become sustainable.
The Confessions of Secret Santa
Our grandson Sam is rapidly growing up! Reading has given him a new independence and a confidence. But it’s been wonderful to see him taking pleasure in giving, as well as receiving, gifts this Christmas.
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