So many joys and wonders

I went to a special service of Choral Evensong at church this afternoon, celebrating both harvest and All Saints’ 150th anniversary year. Three or four other choirs had joined with our choir, and the augmented choir numbered at least 35. The singing and organ playing were superb, and one of the highlights for me was hearing the music of Sir John Rutter’s "Look at the world" filling the church, and listening to the familiar words sung beautifully.  

Before I’d left for the service I had gone out into the front garden in the sunshine with my camera, and was amazed to see this tiny violet flower nestled among some very bright green leaves, yet with a carpet of autumnal dead leaves underneath. The words of Rutter’s anthem seemed to echo the joy and hope in that sight.

Look at the world; so many joys and wonders
So many miracles along our way.
Praise to Thee, O Lord, for all creation,
Give us thankful hearts that we may see
All the gifts we share, and every blessing …
All things come of Thee.

Look at the World, Sir John Rutter