Thought for the week from the Rev David Jones (we 5th August 2012)

The opening ceremony of the Olympic Games was truly spectacular. From the green and pleasant land of rural Britain, the pandemonium of the industrial revolution to the tribute to the NHS and British life is all its aspects was remarkable.

James Bond and Her Majesty the Queen made a typical 007 entrance and that must be a first in Royal history!

The climax was, of course, the teams proudly entering the vast arena with Steve Redgrave, highly deserving of the honour, handing the torch to a new generation of athletes.

What a wonderful start to what we hope will be the best games yet!

The spirit of the Olympics has always emphasised the importance not only of winning but of playing with fairness and integrity. To see the teams following each other, waving their flags proudly in anticipation of two weeks of living their dreams was truly moving, especially when outside the Olympic arena some of those very nations were in conflict and even at war with each other.

The prophet Isaiah on one occasion called upon his people to gather together on the mountain of God.

There they would learn from God of his desire that they should turn their swords into ploughshares and their spears into pruning hooks and never to train for war anymore. Such is the spirit of tolerance and love that we need to seek in our divided world.

As the Olympic flame will light the skyline of London for these next two weeks may the light of God’s love bring lasting hope and peace to our world.

Rev. David Jones

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