Christmas no.2 as Rector of Steeple Aston with North Aston and Tackley...
It's wonderful to drive down the lanes of the three villages, or walk Harry through the woods and fields, seeing people I am getting to know, feeling at home, loving the churches and the villages and simply enjoying Christmas.
It has been a great year. There have been some (inevitable) struggles, but it is a pleasure to be the Rector here, and to help people meet with Jesus. I've been with families as they have experienced births and deaths and I've prayed with all sorts of folk and seen God bless them. I've been blessed time and again in the process: I've been stumped in Bible Study, and found just the right words outside the village shop to open someone's heart to faith.I've been with friends, who have helped me more than I can say, and heard music that has lifted my soul again and again and again.
My lovely, affectionate, crazy dog makes life a constant joy. He is a remarkable gift.
This year has been ordinary, unexceptional and totally wonderful. I am having a very Happy Christmas, and find myself - content. Pretty much. As much as I expect someone of my character could expect to be.
Worship has been central, as always, with songs old and new reminding me where my heart belongs.
Now - excuse me, I have a party to go to, and seven more Christmas services to think about, and my Mum is here & goodness knows what she & the dog will be getting up to next in their particularly volatile love/hate relationship...
Merry Christmas!
