Dear friends,

I am as I write, I am thinking about the Revesby Country Fair that took place on the 2nd August. Its many years since I was last able to go along. The show has gone from strength to strength since I last went and it was good to see so many people there, enjoying the day, the atmosphere, the stalls, demonstrations and events going on in the central ring.

The produce stalls are always an attraction for me, jams and chutneys, sweets all looked delicious. Also to see so many local people showing their baking skills, creative skills and receiving prizes (though I wouldn’t want to have to judge them!)

 Our local shows and fairs really are something to celebrate, the people who have made it happen and the hard work and hours put in.

 People coming along to show their wares, what they do, or what they make, and, with pride talk to people explaining how they achieve it and why they enjoy it, people love to listen, to talk and share. In the bible we are told about Lydia a lady who a producer of purple cloth and goods, which were to be prized. Lydia would with the other women lay out her freshly dyed cloth by the water to dry. The river was a busy meeting place where lots was shared.

We like Lydia sometimes have  the opportunity to share and support those we met by word or action, whatever our daily work is, or the places we go .We know how someone smiling and saying hello, taking time to stop and  share conversation can brighten our day. Jesus talks to us through the pages of scripture and tells us that what we do for others, we do it for him. So we should feel we want to show kindness, give a helping hand, or a listening ear to someone who needs to unload their troubles. Reassure someone; encourage someone who needs courage to carry on through difficult times. This I felt strongly at Revesby show as people shared their concerns.

The farming industry, and our farmers and producers are all under great strain with resent legislation, fuel prices and shortage of rain. This will affect all of us with rising food prices and shortage. Yes, you may be able get goods from overseas, that has travel thousands of mile to get to our shores, but I don’t know about you, but I prefer when possible to buy food that has been grown in our own country with greater monitoring standard checks.  Not only does it taste better but we are supporting our farmers and all the other businesses that rely on our food producers. All across the world there is concerns regarding food production and all need our prayers, and I pray their local communities will support them as I hope we will do ours.

By the time you read this letter I hope we have received some rain and the weather cooled a little.

Every blessing.

Revd Kathy.  revkathybush@outlook.com