Yesterday’s conversations…
Keith’s in his seventies. Keith’s wife died a couple of years ago. He went to a good mate’s funeral last Friday. Life’s tough for him at the moment.
Thom’s in his forties. Thom’s directing a play locally. His main character broke his hip, his replacement dropped out… Thom’s taken on and has to learn the part.
Toby’s in his twenties. Toby got engaged to Kirsty in May. He’s taken on Kirsty’s dysfunctional, unconventional family with love and understanding.
Harry’s in his twenties. Harry recently became a dad for the first time. His partner is denying him access to his daughter, making false allegations about him.
Ray’s in his seventies. Ray’s Harry’s grandad. Ray has feelings and views about his grandson and great-granddaughter… and sees the effect on other family members.
Today’s readings (Luke chapters 1,2)…
Luke’s age isn’t disclosed. Luke’s has talked with eyewitnesses and is now conveying to Theophilus ‘an orderly account’ of the life of Jesus.
Zechariah’s an old man. Zechariah and his wife Elizabeth have no children. He sees an angel, is made dumb, and becomes the elderly father of John.
Joseph’s age is uncertain. Joseph’s engaged to Mary. Mary’s pregnant with a child that isn’t his. Joseph takes Mary to Bethlehem for the Roman census.
Simeon’s also un-aged. Simeon, in the Jerusalem temple, takes the child Jesus in his arms, blesses the child, and prophesies about him.
Malcolm’s Musings…
Malcolm’s in his seventies. Malcolm was privileged to have good men – in his church, in his dad – as role models when he was a child.
Malcolm’s still in his seventies. Malcolm is grateful to men whose example has shown him how to be a good husband, dad, grandad, friend, teacher, leader, Christian…
Malcolm knows men of all ages who face challenges and problems… sickness, families, bereavement…
Malcolm remembers St Paul’s words: ‘Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be men of courage; be strong. Do everything in love.’ He prays that he will be such a man – whatever his age.
Men, in the seasons of life. I can relate, Malcolm. Would you please join me in praying for a mentor of mine, who struggles with a debilitating condition? He is experiencing new challenges and complications. I appreciate the straightforward scripture verse from Paul. I jotted it down in my journal. I enjoy memorizing short scripture verses that contain short statements. Another favorite of mine is:
“ Be joyful in hope. Patient in affliction. Faithful in prayer. “
Romans, 12:12
🙏Blessings.
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I will pray, David. I also often come back to Philippians 4:8 – whatever is true, noble right… think on these things.
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That Malcolm dude you described sounds like the kinda’ man, who even though we may never meet on terra firma, I’ll enjoy spending eternity with above 😊
Be blessed brother, and …
Keep Looking Up ^ … His Best is Yet to Come!
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Some of your Alaskan pictures look great! – But I guess you’re right, Fred. We won’t meet in this life, but we can look out for each other!
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🪽😊🪽
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‘Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be men of courage; be strong. Do everything in love.’
Very wise words.
I have been researching for a play I am writing. It is not about witches or wicca but the victim was involved in it. However, in my research I discovered this group of people who believe they have found their way.
https://www.cuervocoven.uk/
Their faith amused me but then I reminded myself that I have come to the conclusion in the latter years of my life that we must all get through life’s vicissitudes in our own way. Even if in a Blackadderish way.
By the way, I hope Malcolm hasn’t confined his “examples” to a narrow field. But then, as a teacher, it was often the bad teachers who taught me most when I said to myself “Well, I certainly won’t be doing that”.
May we all keep our faith.
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Thanks Alan. I understand a bit abouy Wicca; I’ve a friend who’s a practicing pagan. I’m always interested to discuss what we have in common, rather than what makes us different.
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I have much respect for your approach, Malcolm. We can all learn from each other, even if we don’t always agree.
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I was brought up to focus on differences – and see why people were wrong. I’m still learning that everybody has something to teach me.
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I’m sure you didn’t mean it Malcolm but your “I was brought up to focus on differences – and see why people were wrong.” comes over as a wee bit Woke.
As you write “everybody has something to teach me”
As I have written before, I love learning something new everyday.
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Good on you, Malcolm!
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Thanks, Dana
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God bless Malcolm!
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Thanks, Joy. I pray that God will bless you too
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