Thought for the week (we 4th August 2013)

The doors of the Lindo wing of the St Mary’s hospital must be the most televised ever as the world’s press and media waited for that very special moment when William, Kate and the newly born Prince would appear.

The world looked on as the police guard changed, grandparents and other visitors came and went until that very special moment when the doors opened and the young family appeared. There was no rush to the car and with obvious pride and confidence William and Kate spoke to the press as George Alexander Louis made his first public appearances before being snugly placed in his car seat for his journey home.

Seeing such happiness on the steps of a London hospital was surprisingly moving. That’s maybe because good news is rare these days when we are far more used to scenes of war, terrorism and human tragedy.

Events of real joy and happiness such as the birth of any baby are welcomed as rays of light in what is often a dark and cold world. The warmth of feeling towards this young family rekindled the hope in us all for a better world where every child regardless of nation or creed can grow up in love security and peace.

It was Simeon in the temple who cradled the baby Jesus in his arms and declared that his eyes had now seen the salvation of God. That child who grew to the maturity of manhood and spoke of love, peace, the responsibility we all have of loving our neighbour and of going that extra mile.

It is his love and example that inspires us to do all we can to bring to an end the tragedy of a world where millions of babies are born into abject poverty, hunger and need. Jesus welcomed the little children and placed real value on every life, especially the young and most vulnerable. His example is ours and we must seek to do his will.

It’s no wonder that the angels sang at his birth ‘Peace, goodwill to all on whom his favour rests’ Jesus – King of Kings and Lord of Lords!