GOING ON The more you think about life and death, sadness and joy, you have to accept that there is a rhythm to our existence on earth, and whatever is happening, life must go on. We can't stop the world and get off; we can't opt out of life. Therefore we have to accept the fact that whatever our circumstances are, we must go on. If we refuse to accept things as they are by bitterness or resentment at our situation, then we will only make things difficult for ourselves and unpleasant for those near and dear to us. Banging your head against a brick wall won't affect the wall but it will give you a headache. I read of an incident in the highlands of Scotland, perhaps it was near to where my ancestors came from. A small group of people were talking about heroism, and they were saying that everybody, sooner or later, had to display some kind of heroism. A young man turned to an old lady; she looked so ancient and frail; he didn't know that for her, life had been a series of tragedies and disappointments. "And what kind of heroism do you practice?" he said, in a somewhat superior way, not thinking for a moment that this dear old lady could have experienced any heroism in her life. "I," she said, "I practice the heroism of going on." It reminds us that there is always heroism in taking life as it is with all its heartaches and sadness, and going on with it. In life there is not only impermanence, there is also uncertainty. As the Good Book tells us, 'no person knows the hour or the day when their call will come'. Therefore, if we are wise, our lives will be ordered and peace made with God, so that when that time comes we can answer the call confidently. If we look on life as a birth and a death, and in between a series of highs and lows, of joys and sorrows, of peace and turmoil, of contentment and tragedy, then we have accepted the rhythm of life as it really is. And it does us well to remember that we are only temporary residents here, but we are walking towards eternity if we accept God's offer. Have a good week. Pastor Ron Optional Bible readings: James 1:12; John 14:1-4. This is one of a series of weekly messages of encouragement, now in its fifth year, originating from the Derwent Valley, near Hobart, Tasmania, Australia. A companion Bible study page is available each week. To subscribe email <> with the words 'subscribe word' (or) 'subscribe word and study'. Our ministry is free and mailing lists are confidential. Tell a friend - we welcome new subscriptions. Pastor Ron Clarke JP (Mark 16:15) An e-mail from the Derwent Valley, near Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
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