24

I have watched some episodes of a couple of the series of the TV programme '24'.  For anyone who doesn't know it (and to the best of my understanding!), each series is the story of 24 hours in the life of a Federal Agent in the U.S.of A. - and, understandably, always involves a very dramatic situation.

As I type, it is (in the UK) almost the end of the first 24 hours of 2011.  It's been quite an interesting start to the year!

A prison riot, after which a number of those allegedly responsible for the burning down prison buildings - including a number of accomodation blocs - have been 'rehoused'.  Of course, it is not they who will pick up the tab for the clearing and reconstruction work.  It will, as usual, be 'the government' (aka the taxpayer!!).  Interestingly, the root cause of the riot, and the resulting conflagration was, apparently, alcohol!

Fuel price rises have also been announced - something that will, of course, hit everyone, because even those who don't own and maintain a car will be paying extra for their groceries etc., as the haulage companies are forced to increase their charges to the shops.

Another report informs me that I would have to work for 24 days just to pay off my portion of the interest on the debts left by the previous government - under the ever-watchful eyes of Mr Bliar (still not a typo!), and 'Prudence' Brown!

And so it goes on!  I am so grateful that there is One on Whom I can depend as I step out into this brave new 2011.  As Marie Louise Haskins (1876-1957) said so well in those words quoted by King George VI, during his Christmas message in 1939:

"And I said to the man who stood at the gate of the year: "Give me a light, that I may tread safely into the unknown!". And he replied: "Go out into the darkness and put your hand into the Hand of God. That shall be to you better than light and safer than a known way." So, I went forth, and finding the Hand of God, trod gladly into the night...."

May we all seek His guidance during the coming months - and beyond!