This week, I went on a journey into the unknown…

But you’ll never guess what happened next!

A few weeks ago I travelled to the USA to attend meetings there. At the meetings our discussions focussed on discerning future leadership for our global church. During my visit I was saddened to hear of the passing of President Wallace B. Smith. He served as prophet-president of our church from 1978-1998. I had only personally met him on one or two occasions, and then only after he had retired, yet I (like many others) reflected on his passing and his prophetic ministry in guiding the church. I considered how my global church family around the world might be feeling and how they were impacted by this man, if at all. 

I have been caught up in what I call a medical whirlwind for many years now. I have found that I have withdrawn from many of my normal activities since Covid as quite a few of my family are immune compromised, then it became my way of coping.

“While I’m in Newcastle, I’d like to go swimming in an ocean rock pool.” was Deb’s request. “I have challenged myself to swim in as many ocean baths around Australia as I can. I’ve heard of the Bogey Hole in Newcastle” She said hopefully.

“The Bogey Hole is a secret swimming spot that is best to visit at low tie.” I informed Deb “The waves can be rough and they can wash you against the side or metal stanchions of the platform. People have died there!”

The making of New Year’s resolutions is like setting out on a journey.  There are a few decisions that must be made before we commence.  What are we going to pack in our suitcase to take with us on this journey?  Where are we going?  How are we going to get there?  What is the trip going to cost in time and money?  This is an exercise we have probably gone through many times in our lives. 

The phrase ‘catch the trade winds’ maybe isn’t used much these days …..

In an article today The Salt Lake Tribute begins  “Community of Christ calls its first female president-prophet 40 years after opening ordination to women.” ….If you haven’t caught up with the news there is much abuzz on social media about the appointment of Stacie Cramm to lead our faith community.

  A New Year to me is like sitting on Tiona beach and looking east.

An entire ocean of possibilities, including sunny days and a few storms with howling winds and giant waves, stretch out across the seemingly endless sea.  If we let ourselves, we could become so afraid of the potential dangers, so safety conscious, we would miss the adventure.

I wonder that this time of year, can bring out The Grinch in all of us sometimes, despite all the good will.