For some it is the start of a new phase of life - marriage, bereavement, or a new job. For others it is the marking of a significant milestone – 25 years of The Friends or 100 years of Guiding. Even these milestones are just the end of one chapter, and the start of a new one. There’s no thought of stopping.

Much of the Christian story is of beginnings and counting blessings. We start off very simply, either in Baptism or Conversion, determining to follow Jesus Christ. Along life’s journey, through good experiences and in bad, we recall the great encouragements we receive from God and through his people.

Over recent weeks there have been many examples of good deeds being received as blessings from God – drivers offering assistance to stranded people; neighbours and friends caring for housebound people; telephone conversations (or exchanges of email messages) when face-to-face meetings haven’t been possible; and so much more. Hold on to these good memories, and avoid the temptation to forget so soon!

The old song sung in churches says, “Count your blessings, name them one by one, and you’ll be surprised what the Lord has done.” With such encouragement we will all keep on going – and, what’s more, we’ll want to do our part to share this goodness with others.

David Ainge