There are some things more solid than even mountains
When we think of mountains, we think of vast, immovable places which are unchanging. Moving a mountain is (apparently) an impossible feat. But the truth is that mountains do move and change. I have heard that Exmoor used to be the height of the Himalayas many millions of years ago.
There have been to date (18/04/18) 38 earthquakes in UK this year, possibly like me you don’t think of earthquakes happening in these islands. The closest earthquake to Liverpool in 2018 was in fact on 15/3/2018 at 22.09 in Wybunbury in Cheshire East, the magnitude of the earthquakes was 1.1. The strongest earthquake was felt in Cockermouth, Cumbria on 28/02/2018 at 07:33 and that was a magnitude of 3.4. Although there were no reports of damage or injury there is no doubting that this event caused concern for those living in the area. One resident described the earthquake as ‘a very heavy rumbling’. In contrast the dreadful earthquakes e.g.in Nepal over recent years have proved with devastation the fact that mountains and valleys move, rocks shatter, villages are destroyed and lives forever changed in the process.
For some, the church is one of those places which seem unchanged from year to year. The ancient buildings give the sense that time has left them untouched. Yet we know that through the years there have been dramatic changes in our society some that because rumblings like earthquakes here in the UK, localised and the affects short lived. But societal changes have also brought challenges in the lives of people which can be equated to those shattering experiences of the earthquakes in places like Nepal, the aftermath of which continues for many years affecting not only the physical environment but the lives of many people.
Our lives too can encounter ‘earthquakes’ of different magnitudes.I wonder what in our own lives feel like mountains which we feel are immovable and solid? What are the things we rely on? Who are the people who are always there?
How about this for a challenging thought… that there are some things more solid than even mountains. Some things which go on and on, despite the physical changes in our world. Things like community, faith, hope, love.
Many years ago when I was experiencing a very stressful time in my life (my earthquake time) I was given a copy of a modern version of the 23rd Psalm.
Psalm 23
The Lord is my pace setter, I shall not rush.
He makes me stop and rest for quiet intervals.
He provides me with images of stillness which restore my serenity.
He leads me in ways of efficiency through calmness of mind, and his guidance is peace.
Even though I have a great many things to accomplish each day, I will not fret, for his presence is here.
His timelessness, His all-importance will keep me in balance.
He prepares refreshment and renewal in the midst of my activity, by anointing my mind with his oils of tranquility.
My cup of joyous energy overflows; surely harmony and effectiveness shall be the fruits of my hours.
For I shall walk in the pace of my Lord, and dwell in His house forever.
Toki Miyashina – Japanese version of the 23 Psalm
Our mission statement says: “St David’s is an active parish church that seeks to offer a warm, welcoming, and safe environment, where all are valued and nurtured in faith and life.”
The important thing we want all enquirers to know is that you are all very welcome. We are available for you to get married, have your children christened and have your funeral here at St. David’s. With baptisms and weddings residence of attendance, requirements usually apply. Please do ask. You may not require any of these things, but you feel that there is more to life than the things we all seem to need to do in the 24/7 society in which we find ourselves.
Vestry Hour – Wedding & Baptism Bookings will be taken between 12pm-1pm each Sunday after the main service which is 10.30am, you are very welcome to come along to both. Clergy are also available for private and confidential meetings.
(This article by Rev Sally was originally published as part of St David’s Messenger in May 2018)