Jenny’s letter 22nd June
Dear friends,
It was a real joy to gather for the garden party at Thelma and Ian’s — such a warm, friendly afternoon.
The rain, very kindly held off for the scheduled two hours, and we were able to enjoy the fresh air, conversation, and the best of British summer traditions: delicious scones, fruity jam, and proper clotted cream.
A huge thank you to Thelma and Ian for their hospitality — it was so good to see so many people chatting and enjoying each other’s company in such a lovely setting.
Events like this remind us of the value of simple time spent together — talking, listening, being present. And it made me think, too, about the moments when that kind of warmth and openness can sometimes feel harder to find. We live in a time when many people are tired — physically, mentally, emotionally. After busy weeks and constant pressures, it’s easy to find ourselves running on empty. In that state, even the smallest frustrations can loom large. We may grow intolerant of one another’s quirks or habits. Sometimes we are thoughtless — not through malice, but simply because we haven’t taken the time or energy to think carefully.
It is also true that we often hesitate to speak openly to one another. If someone’s words or actions upset us, we can feel unsure about how to approach them. It can seem easier to speak about them to someone else — or to hold the hurt quietly inside. But this builds invisible barriers between us, and soon the loving, supportive fellowship we long for can feel distant.
As Christians, we are called to guard our hearts and minds — not only against the pressures of the world but also against those small, creeping divisions that can grow among us. The writer of Proverbs gives us this wise counsel: “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” (Proverbs 4:23, NIV.
Guarding our hearts means tending carefully to our attitudes and responses. It means seeking God’s help to be patient and gracious, especially when we are tired. It means choosing to believe the best about one another, and when misunderstandings do arise, being willing to talk directly, with kindness and humility. We are not called to be perfect — none of us is. But we are called to be a people of love, forgiveness, and mutual encouragement.
Paul writes in Colossians: “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another… And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.”
(Colossians 3:12-14, NIV)
That is the kind of community we want to be — a place where all feel welcome, where burdens are shared, and where love is stronger than differences or weariness.
So, as we enjoy more opportunities to meet and share life together — whether in gardens or around tea tables, at church or in quiet conversations — let’s pray for open hearts, guarded in God’s peace, and ready to build one another up.
I do hope that you all have a really good week With every blessing,
