Faith

So, did the Christian peace-maker Norman Kember say thank you to the soldiers who sprung him to freedom in Iraq?

They say Mr Kember is a gracious man and he certainly did behave graciously; although those who have a pile of problems with him being there in the first place would have us believe otherwise.

"Thank you" is something I believe we do not hear as often these days.

Unlike some who have stolen the headlines from a freed Mr Kember this weekend I am not trying to score political points by saying this.

But … it was noticeable that so many were so concerned about the non-appearance of these eight letters on his lips; certainly in public.

I wonder if we take the chance when we can, to show our appreciation and not to always take things for granted.

We who are Christians have a God-given opportunity during Lent to press pause on our busy lives and reflect on the centre-piece of our faith.

Although, at times, the Lenten journey may appear to be like walking through a desert, giving things up; maybe even feeling a sense of misery for those 40 days I would like to suggest it should be 40 opportunities for us to be thankful.

In fact, seeing as Sundays don't count, lets make it 46 opportunities to say thank you to God.

Not only for the most wonderful event in the life of the world, the death, and subsequent resurrection of his son.

But, for the little things which touch our lives each day.

This weekend we had a wonderful opportunity to say thanks to our mothers for what they do for us day in and day out.

How much louder should our thank yous be to the creator for the things we take for granted?