Welcome back PPN families to a brand-new Term 4. I really hope you all had a wonderful and refreshing holidays filled with rest and wonderful new memories. 

At the start of these holiday's, I went home to visit my family. I love going home; there's a pull that always draws us back to the places and people we consider home. That innate desire to feel welcomed and loved.

Something I love to do when I'm at mum and dad's is fishing, with the ocean almost right at their doorstep how could I not. Well one afternoon, when the conditions were right, my dad and I took to the sea, he drove the tractor and sat in the back of the boat denying the urge to wave at the passing houses as if I were in a parade. 

We put the boat out, jumped in and set off to find our usual fishing spots, threw the anchor over and began the wait. 

Those who have gone fishing before know that it can take quite a few cast and lots of patience to get a catch and as I was out on the water with nothing but the wind in my ears and my growing frustration as I cast out for the 50th time just hoping for a bite or even a nibble. I felt that disappointment of my efforts being wasted bring me down. And then it happened, a fish was caught...by my Dad. I eagerly watched as he reeled it in and it flip out of the water, I cheered as he placed our first fish of the day in the tub. 

But hang on a moment, I'm meant to be sad and frustrated, why am I quick to rejoice? I wasn't the one who caught the fish. Then I realised, It's because what was more precious than the fish was the time I was spending with my Dad.

Determined to try one last spot I finally got that bite, and I reeled it in, and that self-doubt faded away and I focused on the smile of my dad as I held up my fish. I did have to throw it back as it was under size, but I really didn't mind, I had already I caught a wonderful moment that will be added to the multitude I have gathered over the years. 

Our Father in heaven wants us to live like this when trouble and doubt come our way, we know that we can always turn to him for guidance and comfort. 

Psalms 25:4-5 NIV

" Show me your ways, Lord, teach me your paths. Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long."

And to not let those doubts bring us down but to rejoice in them, which this verse found in Romans chapter 5 sums up nicely.

Romans 5:3-5 NLT

" We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love."

I hope that the challenges that arise this final term of 2024 are shadowed by the grace and love God has for each and every one of us.

Blessings,

Pr Andy.