Stronger together
I was sitting in my car listening to Radio 2 when our Bishop, Helen-Ann, was doing the Pause for Thought with Gary Davies in her sparkly jumper, talking about the upcoming Eurovision contest and I was thinking how on earth she was going to link Eurovision with the Good News of Jesus. Then she skilfully guided us all into how the joy of Eurovision seems to cross borders, cultures and even theological divides with such ease that it brings about a joyous unity that the world does not often experience. However potty or ridiculous the bands, no one feels offended or even surprised when a hairy Viking screeching lyrics that are uncomprehensible performs, because Eurovision is, well, Eurovision!
At our Mayor-making last night the bells rang out after the new Mayor of Morpeth was elected. Nobody was the least bit worried what political persuasion the Mayor was from, and the bells, without political bias, were declaring the joys of a new Mayor. Everyone in the chamber was united, celebrating, and the bells for those few moments helped the town council cut across the political divide to celebrate together the joy of having a new Mayor. There were a few clipped changes, and someone missed a dodge but the bells were still confidently declaring with joy a community in unity. Those from both sides of the chamber commented on the joy of hearing the bells rung. An ancient art again reminded a community that they are stronger together, reminding us of all that unites rather than all that divides. Psalm 133:1 carries a message needed even more so today than ever before.
Wishing you all God’s unity and blessing.
Rev Canon Simon White,