Pastoral Letter
Dear Friends,
I am writing to you at the beginning of a new year. As we look forward to 2004 doesn't look as if it is going to be a much better year one way or another. There is the continuing unrest in Iraq, with our servicemen and women at daily risk of death or maiming. There is the continuing threat of terrorism, and there is the worry of an economic slowdown. All in all, there is a great deal to worry about, and much to be pessimistic about.
Yet, as we gaze forward, in our hand is placed a priceless gift. Look at it closely. There is no price marker stamped on it. It cannot be weighed, because no scale can balance its value. A king's ransom in comparison is as nothing. Yet, it is given to beggar and prince alike. The giver asks only that it be used wisely and well. This jewel, rare and unique, is not displayed in any shop window. It cannot be purchased, cannot be sold. No other treasure holds the possibilities this gift offers - none can surpass its golden splendour.
Of all gifts, this is one of the most precious. It has been offered many times before. It will be left to you to find the golden thread running through it. Only with great care will the jewel retain its lustre. Carelessness, ingratitude and selfishness will tarnish the brilliance, break the unspoiled thread, mar the perfection.
Guard it closely, lest through weak fingers it slip from your hand. Look often at its faultless beauty. Accept it as it is offered, from the heart of the giver. Consider it is the most treasured of possessions, for it is priceless. It is the gift of the New Year.
So in this New Year, don't be discouraged. Remember that you are precious to God. Take these his words into your heart:
"Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. For I am the LORD, your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Saviour." (Isaiah 43:1b-3a)
So let us not face to this coming year with anxiety and dread. Let us instead take heart from those words from God, and let us approach life in the way that Saint Francis of Sales entreats us to:
"Do not look forward to the changes and chances of this life in fear; rather look to them with full hope that, as they arise, God, whose you are, will deliver you out of them. He is your Keeper. He has kept you hitherto. Hold fast to his dear hand, and he will lead you safely through all things; and, when you cannot stand, he will bear you in his arms. Do not look forward to what may happen tomorrow. Our Father will either shield you from suffering, or he will give you strength to bear it".
I wish you all a blessed and happy new year.