A recent incident reminded me of a young Welshman who attended our church before being promoted to a position in Cardiff. We had enjoyed his company in our home on many occasions, so a few years later while he was visiting London, he thought he would call and see us (in Felixstowe) “on his way…

A novel I read some time ago contained a story of a town in the USA where a well-known character, called Ike, lived. He had always been known by that name, and no one had bothered to find out his birth name. One day, his brother moved to the town and was so much like…

 A recent incident reminded me of a humorous story from many years ago. Two ladies were enjoying coffee in their local café and passed the time looking around at the other patrons and guessing what occupation they might have. One man, who they agreed was possibly an accountant, stopped as he walked past their table…

Several years ago, I recall singing a hymn that included a phrase about prayer, “Take it to the Lord and leave it there.” For some time, I assumed it meant that having prayed about something once, it was no longer necessary to ask God again. This misunderstanding came to mind during a recent daily Bible…

Improvements to hearing over the years have undergone considerable changes, from the need to shout (still an option) to the use of ear trumpets, and now to modern digital aids linked to mobile phones. However, there is a significant difference between hearing and listening. I recall an occasion when my wife asked if I had heard the…

A recent incident reminded me of a daily task I had to undertake, with others, in the early days of my banking career. Every cheque that was “drawn” on the branch where I worked had to be examined for 13 specific things. When teaching at the Bank’s training school, this was known as SWEDES CLAMPS…

I understand that those who live with, or care for, a dementia sufferer quickly learn two (of many) important lessons. The first is to avoid saying, “I already told you”, and the second is to say, “You do know”, when, of course, if the person did know, s/he would have said so. I was reminded…

Concluding the seven reflections on the Prayer Card from the Christian organisation called Medical Missionary News (https://mmn.uk.com), Sunday’s prayer is PRAISE GOD “Thank God for the lives that have been transformed through the work of our partners. Many have received care, support and help which has made a real difference to their lives. Others have…

Continuing reflection on the Prayer Card from the Christian organisation called Medical Missionary News (https://mmn.uk.com). Saturday’s prayer is for STUDENTS Please pray for the students that we are supporting in their medical studies, that they will be disciplined to give their best in their studies, despite all the pressures. Pray, too, that God will keep…

Continuing reflection  on the Prayer Card from the Christian organisation called Medical Missionary News (https://mmn.uk.com). Friday’s prayer is DISASTER SUPPORT & RELIEF “Please pray for those who are suffering from either natural or political disaster. Pray for those seeking to get medicines and food to those who need it. Pray, especially for those on the…