Chaplain’s Message

The Grandmother of a friend celebrated her 100th birthday the other day. What a n innings so far, 100 not out. I have no doubt that in that innings she had help and support at various stages.

This amazing achievement caused me to look at my own innings so far and not just at the length, but also the quality. As one needs to rely on others to create an innings in Cricket, so it is in life that we rely on others (spouse, children, friends, relations) to help us live a quality innings. I have reflected on the opportunities I’ve had, the decisions I’ve had to make, and the people I’ve needed along the way through difficult times.

I remember the time when the game of cricket allowed you to have a ‘Runner’ if you were injured. Someone to do the hard yards, or to carry you, so to speak.

I may have shared this with you before, but I think it’s worth repeating.

Footprints in the sand: one night a man had a dream. He dreamed he was walking along the beach with the Lord. Across the sky flashed scenes from his life. For each scene he noticed two sets of footprints in the sand; one belonged to him, and the other to the Lord.

When the last scene of his life flashed before him, he looked back at the footprints in the sand. He noticed that many times along the path of his life there were only one set of footprints. He also noticed that it happened at the lowest and saddest times in his life.

This really bothered him and he questioned the Lord about it. ‘Lord You said that once I decided to follow You, You’d walk with me all the way, but I have noticed that during the most troublesome times in my life, there is only one set of footprints. I don’t understand why when I needed You most You would leave me’.

The Lord replied, “My precious, precious child. I love you and would never leave you. During the times of trial and suffering, it was then that I carried you”.

Psalm 46:1 “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble”.

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for being such a loving god Who promised that to those who belong to You, You will never leave or forsake, and that You will strengthen and guild through the difficult times. Dear Lord would You bless all Magistrates and their families, and those who read this. May they remember that You are always there.

Ron (Chaplain)