The end of the year is mixed with many emotions.

Happiness of a year well spent. Relief that that holidays are here.

Sadness at the thought of change. Excitement of what is to come next.

Concern about how to fill the time between. Thoughtfulness about what we might want to do next.

 

Maybe it feels like the time for the disciples between Jesus ascending to heaven and the Holy Spirit arriving.

Or maybe it feels like when you are left waiting for a call or a letter or date to come.

 

We’ve said well done to our year 6s, year 11s and Year 13s.

All our primary children have met their new teachers.

And those who have toiled over exams are waiting for their results.

 

But one truth remains. God is with us. God's love never changes. It is new every morning.

Whether we are celebrating or feeling unsettled, God loves us and wants to bless us.

 

There is an Irish Blessing that seems just right for our summer break - it wishes us an easy path, with everything around us encouraging us, supporting us and smoothing the way:

 

May the road rise to meet you.
May the wind be always at your back.
May the sun shine warm upon your face,
The rains fall soft upon your fields.
And until we meet again,
May God hold you in the palm of His hand

 

So may you know God’s love, may you feel God's presence and - until we see each other again - 

Stay safe, pray every day and give thanks. Amen.