WIP

 When we were walking round the Walled Garden at Holkham on Wednesday I came upon a bed at the end of one row which looked rather sad. The glass which had been in this Cold Frame was missing, and the wooden structure was disintegrating in places. It was not clear what plants were growing haphazardly inside. Frankly, in comparison to the rest of the place it was Rather Messy. But it had a very neat sign

It struck me that I am a Project In Progress [and have been for over 60 years] There have been moments when my life's felt a bit messy, or I've felt things are disintegrating around me, or my growth [physical, spiritual or emotional] has not been as healthy as it might be. But I do believe that things are In Progress, and I am being made into a better person [slowly!], transformed by God.

There's a great verse in Isaiah where God says "I have not forgotten you, I've written your name on the palm of my hand"

People used to do that a lot [before the incessant pandemic handwashing] If they wanted to remember something, a phone number, a date, a shopping item, whatever, then they would grab a biro and scribble it on their hand. Right where they could see it often, in a place where they wouldn't lose it.

Today I am so grateful not only that God has not forgotten me, and considers me a Work In Progress - but also grateful for family and friends who constantly remember to show love and support even on days when I am not at my best. 

Here's a very old hymn, written 150 years ago, which makes reference to that Isaiah verse. I learned it as a child, but love it even more since a new tune was written in 1997. Have a great Sunday!