Thought for the week from the Rev David Jones (we 24th June 2012)

We may well be asking whatever happened to ‘flaming June’ following the devastation that so many have suffered in areas of Cardiganshire.

 

The combination of torrential downfalls and high tides resulted in rivers breaking their banks with scenes following more reminiscent of a Hollywood disaster movie than what you’d expect to see in the quite rural setting of this beautiful and tranquil part of Mid Wales.

The sight a lifeboat crew being winched to safely suddenly brought home the seriousness of what was happening and the way in which so many were willing to put their lives at risk to help those whose lives were in danger.

Political leaders rightly praised the rescue services and also the tremendous community spirit that appeared immediately the alarm was raised. Remarkable scenes of people opening their homes and ensuring that those most vulnerable were rescued.

A local pub seriously damaged by flooding saw the landlord preparing food and giving shelter to those forced to abandon their homes. A teenager, knee deep in water expressing concern for others and whose optimism and confidence that his community was not going to be defeated and broken was almost infectious.

That’s what community is all about!.

At the heart of the Christian faith is the belief that despite the tragedies and disasters that occur God is with those who suffer and his love is seen in those who willingly go that extra mile. It is in loving our neighbour we find the very presence of God and find renewed hope to face the future; we saw and still see that in action as the big clear up continues.

It may not be flaming June but there’s a great deal of warmth and care around!

Rev. David Jones

Click here to find out more about the Rev. David Jones.