I expect rather like me the awful weather we have had since before Christmas has caused you to have a good moan. Add to that the financial problems our country has, the ever rising price of food and a million other things to complain about, well what a rotten life we have!

It is obvious to even the most insular of us that we live a lot better than most of the world, but is strikes me that many younger people have no idea how some of us who are approaching pensionable age have lived in the past. I have a minister friend who now lives abroad and is about my age. We would often share stories of living in a two-up and two-down council house with just an open fire in the lounge, no running hot water, outside toilet or double glazing.

I must add to this that my Mum never felt the need to lock the front door, the sense of community was wonderful and the whole road would join together on fireworks night and other special events.

I have found my Heavenly Father to be faithful and trustworthy in whatever state I have found myself in. The times when I was confused and even perplexed He has taken me to the place of His peace. Today I know I am in the right place, with the right Church, a flock who have shown themselves to be resilient and committed and with a vision worth dying for.

Am I thankful? You bet I am