At each Baptism that I celebrate I like to believe that the person who is to receive this Sacrament will hear these same words in the depth of their being. Can there be anything more wonderful than being given the confidence to know that you are a child of God, precious in His sight and called by Him ? However, without the right climate and environment such seedling-words may never reach their full potential. The only way that those who hear these words will come to know something of what they really mean is by hearing these words over and over again, either directly or indirectly. During an economic period when many may find themselves with more time on their hands than usual perhaps in very practical ways these words can take on new voices. Our families, organizations and charities crave for more of our time. Time is our greatest gift to and investment in others. The people who most influence us are those who have shared their time with us. We stand today as their legacy.
At the beginning of a new year, when resolutions may already be memories, there is an opportunity to quietly make a difference to our own lives and those of others. In giving we receive and in receiving we learn the joy, dignity and wonder that there is in being recognised for the people we are called to be – God’s chosen people and precious to Him - the work of His hands that is able to continue to reflect His nature in time and place, not least His love and kindness. As 2010 unfolds around us let us be generous with our time ! It costs so little and can do so much.
Very Revd. Fr. Nicholas Hird, (Parish Priest of Our Lady & St. Paulinus, Dewsbury). Representing Churches Together in Dewsbury.
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