Dear Friends,
“Remember remember the fifth of November
Gunpowder, treason and plot.
I see no reason why gunpowder, treason
Should ever be forgot…”
I’m sure we have all quoted these words at some time, either round a bonfire or with children or grandchildren. But did you know that the year after the gunpowder plot Parliament commissioned an annual sermon to commemorate the plot, the first of which was delivered by Lancelot Andrewes. The thinking behind it was that it would ensure that, with the nursery rhyme, the plot would never be forgotten and of course it seems to have worked because we still remember well some 400 years later.
This month is also the time when we remember those who have died in the defence of this country and for liberty for all. Perhaps it is a coincidence that we tend to remember various things in this month of November but I think it might also have something to do with the changing seasons from Autumn to Winter and the coming of dark nights and cold days.
November is the month when we tend to look back with fond memories of summer holidays, sunny days and flowers all around whilst at the same time also look forward towards the winter months and Christmas.
Whatever the reasons for November to be a month when we reflect on things past it is part of our nature to do so and a good thing that is. For some of us remembering the past can be painful, for others it brings memories of great joy and happiness.
I wonder how many of us remember the times we used to go to church on a Sunday. I expect that most of us can, even if it was only as a child going to Sunday school. These days so much more competes for our attention on a Sunday that we can quite easily think of something we can pretend is far more important to do. It allows us to choose not to remember that Sunday was the one day we kept free for God, and for ourselves, so that we could gather with friends and neighbours to give him thanks!! All too often these days we tend to wait until there is some form of remembrance service, like Sunday the 8th November, or an anniversary or a funeral to find ourselves back in His house.
So why not this month give ourselves a little nudge, remind ourselves of the times when we used to gather in church to give thanks to God for all our blessings. Perhaps we should not only remember a nursery rhyme about a plot to blow up parliament but also the words of the thief on the cross next to Jesus. “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” And Jesus replied, “I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise.” Luke 23 v42-43. Remember, remember that Jesus died for you and me and find that time to give thanks.
God bless you and all those you love,
John Baxter