Many thanks

Many thanks to those who have been praying for us. Clare was released from hospital today and is slowly recovering some feeling in her legs. The hospitals are pretty gross as they are not allowing people to flush the toilets. Ick Ick Ick! Still, hats off to the staff who are working in dire conditions.

Just a mention here of my great employers Fortis Insurance Ltd who have continually been understanding and helpful, and have allowed me time off to look after Clare this week. I have also been able to learn how to use the same water three ways. First, wash in it. Then, wash clothes in it. Then, flush the toilet with it. Some brave souls have been using it four ways, inserting washing the dishes after step one. I ... just can't bring myself to do that.

Oh for a shower...

It certainly is an amazing situation. I am told that had the power failed as well, they would have tried to evacuate Cheltenham and Gloucester. Surely that would have required martial law. It is quite sobering even now seeing the endless police vehicles and army convoys running water around the place.

I still have a LOT to do to prepare for Sunday, but it seems that I might be preaching to no more than ten on Sunday morning - many regulars away. I hope we might make the big two-oh in the evening though - not for numbers sake, but the singing is much better when were are more like 20 than 10. It is strange, but we regularly get about 15-18 in the morning, and 25+ at night. Most churches are the other way round.

May I draw your attention to Psalm 46 below? It has been a great comfort this week!