It was a coincidence
that the Bible reading for the beginning of July was all about
hospitality. This was my first Sunday in the parish of Channelkirk
and Lauder, and there it was: about Jesus sending out his disciples
into the towns and villages to tell them about God's good news. If
they welcome you, he says, then stay there and bless them. If they
do not welcome you, then shake the dust from your feet!
Well, there will be no
shaking the dust from my feet here in Lauderdale! I have truly had
the best welcome that anyone could wish for. The congregation and
townspeople have rallied round to help in all sorts of practical and
spiritual ways, making sure I have everything I need at the Manse,
and offering their support at every turn. From the start, I knew
this would be a good place to be.
This first impression
was quickly confirmed, as the time came for my first ever Common
Riding. Being more of a west-coaster, I had never experienced such a
thing, and so wasn't quite sure what to expect. But in the event, I
was astonished by the sheer numbers who turned out to make it a
spectacular celebration of community life. I was also very impressed
by the dedication of the Cornet, and of his Lass and his Right and
Left Hand Men – that is a huge commitment from these young people,
and a real service to the life of the community. And I was genuinely
moved by the sight of the 375 horses and riders heading off down the
High Street, and then up and over the moors. Knowing that so many
people had worked so hard in the service of their community confirmed
for me that Lauderdale was a good place to be, and it was a privilege
to take my part in the events.
I am, of course, only
the locum minister here. Soon the congregation will elect a new
minister to serve them full time, and that minister will be very
blessed indeed to be called to Channelkirk and Lauder. But even
though I am really just passing through, this time has already proved
to be a blessing to me. It is my hope and prayer, that as I proclaim
the good news of Jesus Christ in this place, that I may also be a
means of God's blessing to you.
Rev. Frances
Henderson
