From Our Minister

"Take my instruction instead of silver;  and knowledge rather than choice gold, for wisdom is better than jewels and all that you may desire cannot compare with her"  Proverbs 8:10-11).

How often do we turn to the book of Proverbs?   Probably our first choice usually leads us to Psalms or one of the Prophets, but as you have just read, Proverbs does include true words of wisdom, worth taking into account.

Don't you have the feeling that we are living in a world where too often people are valued for what they have rather than for what they are?   It seems to me that this leads people to feel they have to accumulate whatever the market values, rather than develop the values which bring us together and help each and all of us feel we are valued as human beings irrespective of our possessions.   Easy said when compared to millions in this world I have today and tomorrow and the next days ahead well provided for!

Yet these words from the book of Proverbs remind us to seek out the true wisdom that does abound in this world much more than we realise.   The wisdom of those who have a life experience and would love to share what life has taught them, if anybody would lie to listen.   The wisdom of those who have seen a great deal and realise that what is happening now could be different for the benefit of so many people.   The wisdom of those who have suffered through war and firmly believe that the answers we need in the world today do not lie in that direction.   The wisdom of the people who live in contact with the Earth and who care for the Earth and feel the pain of contamination of air, water and land, which causes so much sickness to so many today.   The wisdom of those who believe that sharing knowledge and resources contribute to making life a better life for more people.

And from our faith vision, the wisdom of those who have learnt that God can be trusted, even in the difficult times of life, and in humility and love would love to share this with others, particularly those caught up in the rat-race of life in these times.   Yes, wisdom can take many forms, and come from many people, wisdom can surprise us because it often points us in a different direction, to a new vision.   Wisdom usually invites us to slow down, take a deep breath and run the risk of seeing things differently.

In a world in which silver and gold seem to be the only things some people value;  wisdom that comes from God invites us to find those things that are really and truly important, not only for some but fror all.   As we enter the Summer months (will Summer ever come and stay?) let us take time to consider that which is truly valuable and which makes life something really exciting and great for all.   A community of people seeking wisdom:  not a bad choice, don't you think?

May God gift us with wisdom - both received and shared, so life may be fulfilling for more and more people.

God bless you and keep you, now and always.

Robert