Norfords' Ramblings

Wednesday January 7, 2009

We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. Romans 12:6.

Well, we have just about settled in to our new digs, the “mews” cottage that is attached to the large guest house we are managing. Mews cottages, like this one, were originally stables for larger houses, but now that the horses have gone (thank goodness) have now been converted to living accommodation. This one is very modern and comfortable although a cold snap has left the heating system struggling. Temperatures are around minus 3 or 4. Brrrr. This country is trying to compete with Canada but losing, we’re glad to say!

We are thankful for the few days of rest and sleep we had in Oxford—thanks Meg and Dave—it was most opportune, particularly for the busy time up to our arrival there and countering jet lag. Many of us consider our contribution to life around us either limited or inconsequential, but like Meg and Dave’s contribution to us, it can be very meaningful. We all have different gifts according to God’s grace to us whether we recognize it or not. Of course, it is up to us whether we use them.

The rest also prepared us for quite a few busy days when we arrived here. Half a dozen folk arrived at the house the next day, and we found that some work was necessary as the house was virtually closed for a month. We also had some welcome visits: with my sister and her family here, and an invitation to dinner with Christine who will host our girls and grandkids when they arrive later from various parts of the world. Ann has now started her independent study for university and is also arranging an open house here for all members of our respective families at the end of January. I am continuing to edit our book with the publisher, and Dr. Jim Packer has kindly written a foreword to it.

This has all created an up and running start to what promises to be a busy but very enjoyable time here in Worthing. A chance for us to use our gifts, and I’m sure we’ll be dependent on the gifts of others at times. We are very thankful that despite my illness, we both feel extremely well and able to fulfill our obligations and enjoy our extended families. God is so good to us.