September 2005

Fort Newhaven

Last month there were many services held of remembrance 60 years on for all those fallen in World War II both in Europe and in the `Forgotten War' in the Far East. The TV has also been running a great deal of footage of the First and Second World Wars. The sufferings of all countries involved, both the soldiers and civilians make a truly horrific spectacle and one which should make all ages stop and think of the sacrifices made and be grateful for the peace and plenty we now have.

In contrast, how wonderful to hear of the coordinated and successful efforts of the British, American and Russians recently to raise the entangled submarine from the depths of the ocean and to save the lives on board.

In the face of modern conflict and distress, what an inspiration is the work of Mercy Ships www.mercyships.org.uk who with volunteers go to the poor ports in Africa to provide life giving surgery and health care for those who have none.

Somehow in spite of all the terrible news we hear daily, the words of the hymn "Nearer and nearer draws the time, the time that shall surely be, when the earth shall be filled with the glory of God, as the waters cover the sea" is prophetic, as were the words of Jesus 2000 years ago "In the world ye shall have tribulation, but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world."

The mills of God grind slowly, but they grind extremely fine.