Heron

Sunday
The events of Friday night came a little closer this morning, as we discovered one of our church family, who works in Paris, had lost one of his colleagues in the attack at the Bataclan theatre. A group of them were at the concert - three more are severely injured in hospital. The man who died leaves a  wife and two children. so heartbreaking. Our locum chaplain, however, had put together a very meaningful service, which many of us found helpful. The reading was particularly appropriate

"Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep you spiritual fervour, serving the Lord.  Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.  Share with the Lord's people who are in need. Practice hospitality.  Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse.  Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.  Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.  Do not repay anyone evil for evil.  Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone.  If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: 'It is mine to avenge; I will repay,' says the Lord. On the contrary:
'If your enemy is hungry, feed him;
if he is thirsty, give him something to drink.
In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.'
Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good."
Romans 12: 9-21


The afternoon was mild and sunny, and we decided to have a break from our customary walks in the forest, and instead went walking along the Canal du Loing near Episy. Quite a number of other people were out enjoying the sunshine and warm temperatures, and maybe, like us, seeking some solace in nature. We quite often will see a heron along the canal, but usually they will fly off when you approach. This one, however, seemed a little braver, and was content for us to stand and watch him for several minutes from the other side of the canal.