On my day off this week, I returned to the place where I worked before ordination – to catch up with my former work colleagues. Fortunately, my managing director was over from the USA too and it was nice to hear how things had been going over recent years. The company seems to be thriving and they have a full order book, supplying machines all over the world. It was not only an opportunity to catch up with the business side of things, but also to enquire about their families.
It is always good to find out how friends and former colleagues are getting on – I’m not the best at doing that – and to hear how life has been treating them. It is all part of showing love and care towards other human beings, as we live our lives as neighbours, friends and members of our local community. We are encouraged in the Bible to care for one another, as Jesus did when he encountered people as he journeyed through the countryside. We never read that he turned someone away, he always listened to their story – even though he knew their story before they spoke to him.
The story of the Samaritan woman at the well is a prime example of Jesus’ ability to listen to someone’s story, and he told her what she should do to obtain fulfilment and eternal life. Although he knew her life story, he listened and I think she feels relief as she explains all that has happened during her life journey. When catching up with friends, the same is true as we listen to their story and offer a listening ear. I hope we can follow Jesus’ example as we live alongside one another.
May I wish you God’s blessings.
Revd Graham
