Spring

We live in hope. As September approached I was really hopeful that the sun would shine on a more committed basis. I am reminded of our years in Rustenburg where a twiggy little fig tree would produce a green leaf just on time when Spring started. When summer comes we have daylight saving here - and the evenings are the sunny times with long walks on the beach.

Greetings from these wobbly islands. An earthquake of 5.9 in the Hawke's Bay sent bottles of lovely wine crashing on the floor in the supermarkets recently, reminding us of the fragility of things. There are some 15 000 quakes a year - a secret not revealed to us when we first considered moving here. Wellington, lying lazily on two fault lines, has the most amazing houses perched on the sides of hills. Auckland is more stable, but above average rainfall over the last three months has caused major land slips and large town house complexes are now at risk of slipping down the hill. As are other very nice houses. There is this story in the gospel of Matthew about houses on rock and sand, if I recall.

The steady things in our lives - work, children, food becoming more expensive, and the delight of a gas heater which can warm this icy house. All in all we can not complain, as we are blessed in so many ways. The winter ailments caught a number of people, especially young people.

The local political scene is hotting up as New Zealand approaches its next general election. The opposition is still ahead in the polls, but is losing ground. I suspect Labour may still sneak in as so many people will vote for the safety of its rather socialist system.

Our personal challenge is to present a relevant and consistent Christian witness in the community. School life is quite hectic, but there are regular sources of joy and celebration as we continue to try to make a difference through our presence there. We enjoyed a worship celebration recently - over two hours of worship and listening to Scripture, which was edifying and refreshing. Our neighbours invited us to their local church for that. Chapel services at school are not exactly the most riveting worship experiences - it takes a long time to get students to learn new songs!

Blessings and peace to you all. Do take care.

love

Robin