I went to church today.I’ve lived in my home town for 53 years. I can count on one hand the number times I have been to a Sunday service. None of my family are particularly religious although we are Church of England. The classic weddings and funerals.
Christian, perhaps more in spirit than practising.
As I walked towards the church, the bells rang out. It was a welcoming sign and as I headed towards the gated entrance, Rev Andrew Smith, dressed resplendent in his gown, walked into the church with me chatting about a wintery morning.
I’m pretty sure most, if not all, members of the congregation must have wondered who I was. I noticed a few of them look round and some said hello. The Victorian church looked beautiful, tranquil, and uplifting with about 20 or so parishioners. I had been there before with my girlfriend, Marlene, who lives in Florida, and much more of a church goer than myself. In fact, it was her suggestion we went to my local church. I told members of the congregation about this anecdote. I said it as a humorous story although I wasn’t quite sure if it was a little off centre. My church experience was a good one.
As a gambler, I wonder how it would be classed as a sin. Although I have no idea how investments would be viewed because everything is a gamble.
For me, life is about having faith. I think people often associate faith with religion but to me faith his faith. It is an enduring belief in what you do, your hopes, dreams, and having the character to keep believing in times of difficulty. We all face challenges in life. To triumph over adversity – to keep the faith – it is very much about finding answers to questions. You often don’t even know a question exists until it stands before you. We fight the good fight. It is often shown the battle is internal.
What is the answer, the best answer to the question?
The greatest strength you will ever find and need is your personal faith.
