matthewmckinnonsblog

Transitioning to Winter: Embracing Cold and Cheer

1st November and some flowers are still blooming!

This blog, for one reason or another, has taken a while to complete, so please bear with me as I give a resume of thoughts and photos from early November!

November – I always associate with cold, frost, and fog, and sometimes even snow, but this November it was interesting to see some flowers still in the garden, and trees in the p`ark with many leaves. Here are some photos taken on the first day of the month.

Autumn – Early November

When British Summer Time ended however, we were quick to see many changes. The sun is now low in the sky by 4pm, the shadows have lengthend, beaches are deserted, and dark nights are truly upon us. As temperatures in Scotland dropped below zero, and snow appeared on Ben Lomond and in the Highlands, and Christmas lights and decorations appeared in the shopping centres, we knew it was time for scarves and woolly hats, and time to switch on our electric blanket!

Nice to come home to a warm house on a frosty night

But just when I think it’s cold outside, I always remember our visit to NY. Alesund in the Artic Circle, for there the sun disappears at the end of October and only reappears again in early March – Whew, now that is something! It’s then that I appreciate how well off we are!

December: Now we are officially into the winter season, Christmas is just a few days ahead in our calendars, so families are busy getting ready. Special shopping expeditions for gifts; Christmas decorations, party jumpers and dresses, Christmas crackers, special food to purchase and prepare, all these and more are being organised and enacted.

Children are getting ready for their parts in Nativity plays, in schools and churches. My own church has a series of special events throughout the month that we are looking forward to.

Meanwhile, I’m trying to find a quiet corner to read on my Kindle this new book by John Lennox which I’m finding quite fascinating. It’s first and foremost a commentary on the last book of the Bible, the book of Revelation, which I am enjoying reading. However in his introduction he has also some interesting thoughts on this whole AI business, which he has written about in more depth elsewhere. See the interview about this book here, between John Lennox and Sean McDowell – https://youtu.be/mAfRswipXiE?si=5O9nLXn2BjSpb0j6

When it comes to change, surely AI (artificial intelligence) is the phenomena that is catching everyone’s attention these days. The reality is that in almost every field of human existence, AI is being used to create machines to do all kinds of work, which until recently was always done by people. Earlier this month it was reported here, that Dr Ricardo Hanel – a neurosurgeon in Florida used newly developed technology to carry out the first transatlantic surgery on a human body 4000 miles away in Dundee, Scotland. (G. Fraser – BBC Scotland) We have also recently been hearing that machines are being used for reading and examining x-ray and MRI scans, sometimes with a higher level of accuracy than humans. There are huge benefits envisaged in the development of AI, but also huge dangers, unemployment just being one of the many concerns John Lennox raises, especially in less developed countries.

I was interested to read in JL’s book, of some people’s ideas in the Western world that computer technology has replaced religion as the most credible hope of saving humanity in the future. They are said to predict that it is only a matter of time until science solves the problem of death, and eventually we will develop a race of super happy and intelligent transhumans. All this says John against the scientific ‘Doomsday Clock’ set in 1947 at 7 minutes to midnight, but moved in 2024 to 90 seconds to midnight!

So would you like to volunteer to be one of the first to be chosen to become one of the new super intelligent transhumans? To become God like? In this scenario, mankind is once again dreaming, just as Adam and Eve did when tempted in the Garden of Eden – Bible – Genesis chapter 3.

Whatever you think, take heart, for as John Lennox reminds us, the Bible tell us that these questions and much more, were resolved almost 2000 years ago. Yes, its Christmas again and as we stop and reflect on the reason for the season, we are reminded that Christmas is good news to all people. This is real trustworthy news. News so powerfully encapsulated in the words of the apostle John when he wrote “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.” John 3:16,17.

This message is still changing the lives of countless thousands all around the world today, as they come in repentance and faith to Jesus, and find forgiveness for sin, and accept the eternal life he freely offers, as they receive Jesus as Saviour and Lord. All over the world men and women are becoming one through faith in our Lord Jesus! I’ll finish with an incident that happened in my childhood.

Just after WWII when prisoners of war were allowed out of their prison camps here in Scotland, we had many German prisoners of war who attended our evening service at Greenview Church in Glasgow. At Christmas a large group of them stood together and sang in German ‘Still the night, Holy the night ……. Men we had thought of as enemies singing ‘Still the night, Holy the night, Son of God, love’s pure light, Love is smiling from thy face, Strikes for us now the hour of grace, Saviour since thou art born’. Wow!

Forgiveness can be hard at times, but you may remember that when Jesus taught his disciples to pray He included these words ‘and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us‘. Let’s consider puting these words into action this Christmas and on into 2026.

We sang this carol ‘Still the Night’ at our Senior’s Christmas Celebration last week. It’s sung in German as we recalled that memorable night in church all these years ago. The words are in English on the screen, so sit back and watch and listen, and let the wonder of the Christmas story touch your heart again, as it did mine. Watch on You Tube – (click the link and then the blue link)

https://youtu.be/PlV9Yuau8xM?si=sV798kF-otQTzeRJ

Before the end of the month I plan to show some of my favourite photos from 2025, but in the meantime I wish all my readers A Very Happy Christmas and God’s blessing in 2026.

Matthew

An Autumn Break in the Trossachs

It was lovely to have a few days in the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park late in September, and although it was at the start of the Autumn season, the weather was more like a good day in summer here in Scotland!

We were staying in a beautiful little cottage at Gartmore, just a one hour’s drive from Glasgow, so this opened up to us some of our favourite haunts, and no surprise then, when I say we took lots of photos.

After a good night’s rest we headed for the ‘three loch forest drive,’ which you enter at the summit of the ‘Duke’s Pass’. It is a restricted area and to gain access there is a £3.00 charge at the entrance barrier. Speed is restricted to 10mph so it is a beautiful relaxed drive, with lots of stopping places, and walks and seats, and a picnic area with toilet facilities. We like to go in August when the heather is out, but the changing colours in the Autumn, in the trees and hedgerows made us think that September too, was also a great choice! So here’s a few pics from our Forest Drive.

As we left the forest drive trail we were very near to Loch Katrine so we had a walk and seat by the side of the loch, and before dinner took some sunset photos at the Lake of Menteith. Here’s some more photos.

On our final day we had an early morning visit to Kinlochard, and in the afternoon a drive over the hill to Callendar and the Woollen Mill there. Now some final photos!

At the Woollen Mill we smiled when we noticed they were selling bags of food to allow the tourists to feed the Highland cows! There is always someone with a novel idea for making a bob or two 🙂

Well it was nice to be away for a few days, without listening to the news bulletins, with their daily dose of bad news. and being able to eat out in the relaxed ‘Faerie Tree Restaurant’ in Aberfoyle in the early evening. Time then for a good read and another cup of tea before bed.

At that time I was reading Justin Brierley’s book ‘The Surprising Rebirth of Belief in God: Why New Atheism grew Old, and Secular Thinkers are considering Christianity again”. Early in the book he was quoting from the poem by Matthew Arnold – “the interesting thing about the sea of Faith is there’s no reason why it can’t come back in. The sea doesn’t only withdraw you know, it’s the point of tides.”

This is not the place for a book review, but I would recommend it, as it covers a wide range of topics which the writer believes points to a firm foundation for belief and faith in God.

Today I’ll close with a lovely Christian hymn speaking about the God of Creation.

Hope you enjoy the photos and this beautiful video.

So I wish you God’s blessing wherever you are, thanks for coming on to the blog, and I hope you’ll come again. You may like to subscribe.

Matthew

The Harvest is past, the Summer’s ended – 2025

It’s lovely to sit in the morning quietness and watch the sunbeams start to creep across the garden. To see the birds activity, and often to watch the resident squirrel do his morning inspection! Today being the 31st of August, this was the last morning of Summer in 2025 here in Scotland.

Tomorrow we enter Autumn, and ‘dead on cue’ the forecast is for rain and strong winds, so we can expect a ‘windfall’ of apples from our apple tree.

Tonight I’ve been looking back on this year’s summer and enjoying photos of places, flowers and the greenhouse etc. I hope you enjoy them. Firstly, the trip we made recently to the beautiful Isle of Bute on the Clyde Coast, which I promised in my last blog.

Now some other summer photos!

So the harvest is past, the summer ended ……….

I started my blog by saying ‘It’s lovely to sit in the morning quietness ….’ and it was there I had the thought for this blog’s heading. Many moons ago as a teenager I had sat in a church service and heard the preacher speak on a verse from Jeremiah 8:20. the full quotation was ‘The harvest is past, the summer has ended, and we are not saved” Jeremiah the Prophet of God who wrote them, warned his people to repent of their sins, but his message went unheeded, He therefore lived through a time of war, when the nation was attacked, and many were killed and many others taken captive. They had looked to others for help, but it had not come. His plaintive cry was “Oh, that my head were a spring of water and my eyes a fountain of tears! I would weep day and night for the slain of my people”. This was written in the seventh century BC.

I guess at times we all feel like weeping for people around the world who suffer in so many different and tragic ways. The statistics are mind blowing. Last year (2024) – 233,000 people are estimated to have been killed in armed conflicts. One Christian organisation that report on Christian persecution says 1 in 7 Christians are persecuted world-wide – 4,476 were murdered last year, 7,679 Churches and properties were attacked and 4,744 Christians imprisoned. Tearfund one of the UK’s leading charities, in their Autumn report speaks of an unprecedented increase in crisis. When we worked in Africa with this organisation, it was not uncommon for those around the table to say ‘If only we could stop the arms race for one year, thnk of what could be done with the money saved’.

So whilst people all around the world, men and women, boys and girls cry out to be saved, from war, famine. drought, persecution, abuse and poverty, Governments continue to increase military defence expenditure. In 2023/24 the UK budgeted £53 .9 billion and then budgeted £56.9 billion for 24/25 with a promised 2.2 billion uplift for 25/26. Worldwide in 2024 the figure is estimated to be US$2.718 trillion! That is $2,718,000.000,000 Wow!

Do you get the feeling that something is wrong with humankind? I’m reminded of the famous quote of G. K. Chesterton the author, philosopher and Christian apologist of the last century who responded to a newspaper article on this subject. He said, “Dear Sir. What’s wrong with the world? I am”. Yours G. K. Chesterton.

The preacher of my youth wasn’t slow to remind us that when we point the finger at others, four fingers point back at ourselves. For we are all far from perfect. Yes we are all children of Adam, and we might not say ‘Scotland first’, but act like it’s ‘me first’. You see it on social media regularly, ‘if someone annoys you, or doesn’t like you, the advice is ‘dump them’.

The Christian gospel is so counter cultural. We read in the book of Romans ‘… God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” (Romans 5:8) and again, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him”. So the message is clear we ALL need to be saved from the consequences of our sins, and the only Saviour is Jesus Christ God’s Son.

Yes, like the leaders of our world past and present, we too will give an account. We don’t all automatially go to heaven, but are in danger of eternal separation from God (which the Bible calls hell) unless we turn from our sin and receive the free offer of Salvation through faith in Jesus Christ.

Summer is past, time is moving on .. would you like to be sure that you will be in heaven? then act now … for it is written:

For he (God) says,
“In the time of my favour I heard you,
and in the day of salvation I helped you.”
I tell you, now is the time of God’s favour, now is the day of salvation.

Always happy to hear from you. I hope this short reflection will lead you to commit your life to Jesus Christ if you have not already done so.

Wishing you God’s blessing wherever you are – Matthew

THE WAYSIDE PULPIT

WAYSIDE PULPIT – ISLE OF CUMBRAE – SCOTLAND

The weekend before last, was exactly three months since I had my stroke, so in celebration of my recovery to date, we enjoyed a long weekend with family at their beautiful home in Skelmorlie on the Clyde Coast.

On our first full day we decided to take a trip to the Isle of Cumbrae, (‘the big Cumbrae’) so with our picnic packed in the car we set off on our day trip. The weather was cloudy with some sunny spells, but the cool day was perfect for us. Here are some photographs.

Most of the afternoon was spent driving very slowly around the island, giving way to the many holiday cyclists. and we were enjoying the flowers, birds and the amazing scenery. We stopped at a quiet spot for our picnic lunch and I had a walk on the deserted beach. Later at the Fintry Bay cafe we enjoyed the obligitary ice ceam! Mmmm!

As we moved on from there I noticed a parking space next to a path that led out a promotory that I had never noticed before, so as my wife sat in the car I went to investigate. Soon I came across a fine wooden bench and this captivating view, shown above. I stood there for a while with a mild wind blowing in my face, listening to the waves against the rocks and watching the sun break through the clouds, reflecting beautifully on the water. The glory and majesty of God in creation was clearly displayed before me, I paused to praise Him, and thought that just three months earlier I had wondered if my opportunites for getting out and about like this had passed as far as I was concerned! As I turned to return to the car I spotted the ‘wayside pulpit’, the message struck me with force, it seemed to have been put there just for me.

Mightier than the thunder of the great waters,
mightier than the breakers of the sea—
the LORD on high is mighty. …. Psalm 93.4

followed by the quote …….

“God is always greater than all of our troubles”

I then went back to the car for my wife and we enjoyed sitting on that bench, thinking on the goodness of God during our long life together, and also in answering the recent prayers of so many friends, near and far.

On Thursday this week I attended our Church prayer time. If you live locally we would love to see you. My Christian friend who was leading read the first three verses of Psalm 5:

Psalm 5
For the director of music. For pipes. A psalm of David.
Listen to my words, LORD,
consider my lament.
Hear my cry for help,
my King and my God,
for to you I pray.
In the morning, LORD, you hear my voice;
in the morning I lay my requests before you
and wait expectantly.

We then listened to the late Chuck Girard singing these verses from psalm 5, which I really enjoyed as he sang with such pathos. But here it is beautifully sung by the Maranatha singers.

So today in our troubled world, and doesn’t trouble confront us all at times? it is good to know Jesus as our Lord and King. Notice the Psalmist David speaks of God in this personal way, my King and my God. He does the same in Psalm 23, when he says ‘the Lord is my Shepherd! Notice too, the Psalmist’s words ‘In the morning you hear my voice’, this man it seems, practised a regular talk with God, and he ‘looked up‘ expectantly waiting on his King and God to answer his prayer.

Wherever you are, and whatever your troubles, may you find that the words of the psalmist David encourage you to get to know God personally through faith in Jesus Christ his Son. So then, come to Him in prayer, in repentance and faith, then pour out your heart to Him and look up, to await His answer.

Next time I’ll tell you about our latest visit to the Isle of Bute. Meantime I wish you well wherever you are.

Matthew

Positive Care Experience at QEUH: A Patient’s Perspective

QUEEN ELIZABETH UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL GLASGOW – In my last blog, I was telling you something about our holiday to the island of Tiree and our day trip to Loch Katrine, and then finished up by telling you of my hospital experience after having had a stroke. There have been many reports regarding problems at the QEUH since it was opened 10 years ago at a cost of around £575 million pounds, along with negative reports of the NHS in Scotland generally. I thought I would just like to add my ‘tuppence worth’ as a ‘stroke patient’ who last had a stay in hospital approximately 75 years ago!

It was around 3am when I had my stroke, and my wife was quick to dial 999, and the ambulance arrived within 10-15 minutes. A quick assessment and soon I was on my way to QEUH Stroke Unit where I received immediate attention. A few scans later I was given a cocktail of pills and transferred to a ward. The following morning after a visit from two physiotherapists I was moved to the stroke rehabilitation centre.

During my stay there I was impressed by what I observed, and blessed by the empathy and care of the nursing staff, and all the associate professionals along with, caterers, cleaners, and porters. I was truly well looked after, but not “molly coddled” and was encouraged to do for myself, the things I was able to do. The Physio / Occupational Therapy team were excellent, and had access to a well equipped gym and ‘mock up’ kitchen. There was also an arts class, and film night(s) which were great in helping people to take their mind off their current problems. Visitors were allowed and welcomed throughout the day, and some patients were allowed out to walk or in wheelchairs to enjoy the sunny weather. In my mind I was scoring this 10 out of 10!

During my stay, and since coming home I have been blessed with many visitors, including visits from two new great grandsons, but unfortunately don’t have pictures of them all. Here is a selection of smiling faces who came to encourage and pray.

While in hospital I was asked if I would like to take part in some research programmes, so after some discussion signed up for ‘The Pheonix trial’, which sounded really interesting. The study seeks to discover how our genes respond to different medication and if tailoring medicine to each individuals genes could lead to better outcomes, and save money by not providing medicines that are not giving the results intended. You can read more about it here – phoenix.gla.ac.uk

The local Stroke ‘Physio Team’ have also been excellent since I came home, so I have and am, being well cared for.

Well life has slowed down a bit, but we have been enjoying the garden, and some local trips and walks in beautiful weather, since I last blogged, so here are some pics.

In this blog I tell something of the trials and joys of life, and of the many loving and helpful people we meet along life’s journey. Not just family and personal friends, although they all so kindly gathered around to help in a multitude of ways, far beyond the call of duty, but also of so many others, whom until recently I had never met. It was moving to watch the nursing care given to other patients, for example, the 90 year old man being given a shave, and after shave lotion rubbed into his face, and made to feel comfortable. Later to see the equipment that was available to lift him out of bed into a wheel chair, where he was wrapped up for a walk to the hospital garden. Wow! I wonder how things might change for the sick, weak and those feeling emotional and vulnerable, also between doctors and patients, as and when the ‘Assisted Dying’ bill becomes law.

As a Christian, I believe that life is a gift from God, and that he created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them, and so love and compassion for others is readily expressed in so many ways within society. But recent bills in the Houses of Parliament regarding the killing of the unborn child and the assisted dying bill I feel strongly opposed to. Surely we need to listen to the pleas for the unborn child, and provide more palliative care for the dying..

So does God care about you? Absolutely! Before Jesus Himself was betrayed, or heard the mob cry ‘away with Him we will not have this man to reign over us‘, before he heard the judge say ‘I find no fault in him‘, but was nonetheless handed over to be crucified, He spoke these words.

“Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. You know the way to the place where I am going.”
Thomas said to him, “Lord, we don’t know where you are going, so how can we know the way?”
Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. John 14:1-6

I came to Jesus as a child, but it is never too late to come. Have you come?

Here is a prayer you could pray – Dear Heavenly Father, I confess that I am a sinner, and believe that your Son the Lord Jesus Christ died for my sins on the cross. I believe that you God raised him from the dead. I now repent of my sin and receive Jesus into my life, and confess Him as my Saviour and Lord. Amen

If you prayed that prayer, welcome to the family of God. John the Apostle says – Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God — children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband’s will, but born of God. John 1:12, 13.

A song to sing along.

If you have been supporting me in prayer, or have sent a card or message, then a huge thank you, and if you are one of my subscribers again a big thank you for following along life’s road with me.

Wherever you are I trust this finds you well, I’m always glad to hear from you

Matthew

Reflections on Life After Our Tiree Holiday

It seems no time at all since the end of April, when we were on holiday in the beautiful island of Tiree off the west coast of Scotland. Soon we were out and about on our various trips to many of our favourite picnic haunts, in some glorious Spring weather.

Now looking back I reflect on all that has happened since, which has caused us to re-evaluate our new circumstances and to ponder on how quick life can change. Before I expand on that let me share some photographs of our adventures in Springtime.

Yes we had an amazing holiday in Tiree, the weather was cool but beautifully sunny almost every day. We enjoyed slowly driving around the island and walking on the white sandy beaches and taking in the breathtaking beauty which surrounded us. It was the lambing season and signs of new life were everywhere, in the flowers, birds and young lambs and calves. Here are some photos, first showing our journey by car from Glasgow to Oban.

We had a night’s bed and breakfast in Oban and next morning caught the early morning ferry to Tiree via the Isle of Coll.

A week’s stay in Tiree was as usual a week of peace and tranquility, and somehow we always manage to enjoy many sunny days. Yes it was April, with still a cold wind so you need to dress appropriately. Too many photos to show, but here are some of this years favourites.

The following weekend was the May Spring holiday here in Scotland, and we had been kindly given some vouchers for sailing on the ‘Sir Walter Scott Steamship’ on Loch Katrine in the Trossachs area, within the National Park. We awakened to a beautiful morning with cloudless blue sky, and soon made our way across the Duke’s Pass to Loch Katrine. I am sure you will never get a better day than that day. The weather was absolutely glorious, this is a day trip highly recommended..

**Loch Katrine taken from the new viewpoint just above the pier**

The following day was not so exciting as after our Tiree week and our sail on Loch Katrine, I had to catch up with all the mail that had accumulated during our absence, so it was the day of sitting at the computer. That night at around 3am I had a stroke and was hospitalised for nine nights.

Thankfully I am well on the way to recovery, and again, thankfully my speech and mind were not affected; mostly my left arm and leg which are now functioning well, so I am hopefull that I can make a full recovery.

However, some things that come your way in life, bring you up with start. I had often been told that I was very fit for my age, and after my holiday and trip to Loch Katrine I certainly was feeling very well. Then as I lay in bed in hospital I was reminding myself of the verse in the book of Proverbs that says ‘Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring.’ Prov. 27:1. whew, how true! All these summer plans were now on hold.

I have had many encouragements from family and friends near and far, in the way of visits, text-messages, cards, flowers, food and fruit juice, and even someone arriving at our door to help in the garden. So if you are one of those who are reading this, let me say a huge THANK YOU!

As a Christian I am truly appreciative for the many prayers spoken from my local Church family, and indeed from so many others around the world to our God and Father on my behalf. I believe that the progress made to date is in many ways an answer to them. I’m also thankful for the many Bible thoughts and verses sent and spoken to me, they are such an encouragement. Here’s just one:- ‘May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.’ Rom.15:13

Yes, truly this is our sure hope in Jesus Christ and what he has promised to those who trust in Him, whether in life or death. I said to someone recently who had kindly wished me ‘all the best’ – thank you, but whatever happens, the best is yet to be‘- this is the Christian hope.

My stroke certainly got me thinking, and perhaps has got YOU thinking too? As I write news has just come in of 21 people involved in a balloon disaster in Brazil, first reports of 13 killed. The recent ‘AIR India’ disaster saw just one survivor out of 242 people on board. HOW SAD. It’s good to be ready don’t you think? Here’s a song that is special to me – have a listen

Matthew

PS: There has been much criticism of the NHS. Next time I would like to tell you of my experience.

Oh, to be in Scotland now that April’s here!

**Sitting in the garden, with sunshine and a blue sky is something special in April.**

Well, I know the famous poem by Robert Browning that many of us learned at school says, ‘Oh, to be in England’, so forgive me for stealing his strap line. However April has been a special month this year here in Scotland in 2025, with temperatures reaching 22.8 degrees C in the North, this against a seasonal average of around 13 degrees! This enabled us to get out and about, as is our want, and also to get many jobs done in the garden. Here are some garden photos.

Our outings to the local park, and to Loch Lomond, were all taken in the sunshine, which was a real bonus after the winter months. I hope the following photos encourage you to visit Scotland 🙂

We also had a lovely weekend with our family at Skelmorlie, near to Largs. Here are some photos taken there on the Clyde Coast.

In April we have also been enjoying our fellowship with friends at our Church in Pollokshaws, Glasgow, with participation in some of the many events that take place from week to week. You can see our programme and listen to our services at greenviewchurch.co.uk and on You Tube.

As I write this I am well aware of the fact that this is ‘Good Friday’, surely amongst the most significant and solemn dates in the Christian calendar. On this day we remember that Jesus Christ God’s Son finished the work His Father had given Him to do. The Apostle Peter writes to believers about it in his first letter recorded in the Bible at chapter 2:22-25 Writing about Jesus’ death Peter says, “He committed no sin, and no deceit was found in his mouth. ”When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he entrusted himself to him who judges justly. “He himself bore our sins” in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; “by his wounds you have been healed.” For “you were like sheep going astray,” but now you have returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls.”

But Sunday’s coming, surely the most joyous date in the Christian calendar for all who love Jesus! Perhaps we will sing one of my favourite hymns this Sunday morning! If you live in or around Glasgow, why not come and join with us as we celebrate? Details in the leaflet shown above.

Here are the words of one of my favourite Easter victory hymns :-

Low in the grave He lay, Jesus, my Saviour – Waiting the coming day, Jesus my Lord. Vainly they watch His bed, Jesus my Saviour – Vainly they seal the dead Jesus, my Lord. Death cannot keep his prey, Jesus my Saviour, He tore the bars away Jesus my Lord. Chorus (sung after each of the above stanzas) : Up from the grave He arose, with a mighty triumph o’er His foes; – He arose a victor from the dark domain, and He lives forever with His saints to reign; He arose! He arose! Hallelujah! Christ arose!

So this is Scotland in April, it has been a great month, and I look forward to celebrating Christ’s resurrection this coming Sunday. I hope you are able to do that too, wherever you are.

Greetings from Glasgow – Matthew

Special Anniversaries for two outstanding 0rganizations

What first comes to mind when you think of Africa? As children we probably thought LIONS, and we were told of all kinds of wild animals and exotic creatures that lived there, but especially the lion that we called ”the King of the Jungle’! Never did I ever dream that one day I would live and work there, and see for myself some of these amazing wonders of God’s creation. Here’s a wee selection

But the main reason for my wife and I being in Africa was not to see the wildlife, but to work with Tearfund, a large UK Christian Relief and Development agency, working in city slums and also in remote areas, not only in Africa but around the world.

Working with Tearfund out of Nairobi in Kenya introduced us to many other organisations, and many different people groups, and today I would like to introduce you to one special organisation and one Trust working with a special peoples’ group, if you are not already acquainted with them.

Mission Aviation Fellowship – 80 Years of impact in Africa. MAF is not a new organisation, but still ‘new’ to many who have yet to hear of this charity flying to the world’s remotest communities! I had heard reports about MAF through our Church, but in Africa I got to experience their work at first hand. Not only did we personally fly with them, but my wife was often at the airport with messages, parcels and equipment that needed to be transported to colleagues working in some very remote places, or picking up or dropping off Tearfund passengers. If you are unfamiliar with their work I suggest you check out their website: maf-uk.org. You can also subscribe to their quarterly free magazine, which is always a great read. Here is a selection of some old photos illustrating the variety of their work.

**MAF hanger – Wilson Airport – Nairobi, Kenya**

‘Scottie” a Cessna Caravan – funded by Scottish Supporters – Commissioning at Prestwick Airport 2003

The Rendille – 40 Years transforming lives through literacy and Faith . Back in the early 1980’s the Rendille Language had not yet been put down on paper. The Rendille were nomadic people moving around the desert/wilderness of Northern Kenya with their camels, cattle and goats. Their ‘igloo’ type houses could readily be dismantled and bundled on to their camels as they searched for fresh vegetation and water. But not only an amazing people but an amazing couple. Nick and Lynn Swanepoel arrived from South Africa to live among the people, to decipher their language and to write it down. Then came the literacy classes, and the rest is history as they say! As Tearfund’s Manager for East African affairs it was a privilege to visit this programme over a number of years. Here are some pictures of these early days.

All the above photos were taken a long time ago, but what is happening among the Rendille today? Well the advancement over the last 40 years can only be described as phenomenal, so we give God thanks for all that has been achieved.. The vision of early pioneers to bring literacy to the Rendille, and to translate the Scriptures into their mother tongue has resulted in a well educated people up to secondary school standard, and many now with a `College certificate or a University Degree. Here are a few more highlights:-

The work of the Africal Inland Church has been greatly blessed with countless changed lives, new vision and new life in abundance within the community.
The New Testament in the Rendille language has been printed and distributed with great rejoicing, and work is well under way on other books of the Bible.
The establishment of the Tirrim Trust – www.tirrim.org has brought 5 new schools to the area, providing excellent facilities and a high standard of education as mentioned above. Today there are camps and special weekends for the young people and a bus to transport them around.
New literacy classes still provide reading and writing skills to many adults, new classes are still opening up in isolated areas.
Well drilling and the building of new water tanks continues as necessary

Too many things to tell here, check out the website above for yourself, and be inspired! Here are some recent photographs.

Who would have thought that two young airmen heading off to Africa in an old Wooden Miles Gemini plane in 1945 could lead 80 years on, to the amazing organisation that Mission Aviation Fellowship is today? Now flying 115 light aircraft in 31 different countries of the world, and flying in and out of 1,500 airstrips?

Or who would have dreamed that a young couple heading off to the wilds of northern Kenya to live amongst a nomadic tribe they did not know, whose lanuage they had yet to learn, write down and teach others to read and write, would lead to the amazing transformation amongst the Rendile people which we see today?

Both these stories have one thread in common – both the airmen and Bible translators recognised a need that they themselves could not meet, but they brought that need to God in prayer, and then moved forward in faith trusting the words of Jesus who said ‘Go …. and I will be with you always’ How amazing to see God’s guiding hand in both these stories, and now we stand back in awe and say ‘How great is our God’. Praise God also for the many men and women who have followed in their footsteps as they too have heard the voice of God speak into their hearts.

So what about you and me? Do we have a calling or an issue that we recognise we cannot solve in our own? We’ve tried this and that but nothing seems to work out. Bringing it to Jesus to seek His guidance and help is a well proved and tested approach, which I personally try to live by, – see Proverbs 3:5,6. If not yet a Christian we need to consider our sin problem which separates us from a loving God. The Bible speaks clearly about the impossibility of us solving this for ourselves, but then tells of God’s love in sending Jesus to be our Saviour and friend. Jesus took our sin to the cross, and suffered and died in our place. Now He invites us to come to Him, confess our sin, and invite Him into our lives to be our Lord and Saviour. Still time to come! Yesterday I was reading in the Bible Matthew 9:18-26 another two great stories with a remarkable ending. It tells of people who came to Jesus asking for help, and finishes with eye watering results! Do have a read!

Best wishes from Scotland, thanks for subscribing. Always glad to hear from you.

Matthew

Winter Days out and about in Scotland – February.

Descending from Glen Douglas to Loch Long

I have been saying to my wife recently that ‘we dont seem to be getting out and about so much these days‘, then I look at my photographs and think we are doing not too bad 🙂

The weather here has been a mix of frosty days, cold, damp, fog and gales and trorrential rain and with some lovely days in between. But what’s new? This is winter and this is Scotland!

Here are some photos of a trip we did on one of the better days in early February. Try and guess where we have been! It get’s dark around 5pm at this time of year, but it’s amazing where you can get to in just a few hours from Glasgow. We love this quiet glen in Argyllshire, shown below, it is just so peaceful and so beautifully designed.

From there we travelled to the end of the Gareloch where we turned right and drove over the hills to Cove and Kilcreggan on the Firth of Clyde. Later we headed home via Dumbarton and the Erskine Bridge, arriving just before dark.

Descending to Loch Long from Glen Douglas

If you would prefer something more sedate and cultural with a nice tea-room you would love a visit to The ‘Burrell Collection’, a beautiful museum set within Pollok Park on the South-side of Glasgow. It is visited by people from around the world. It’s a while since we were last there, but yesterday we spent the afternoon in the park and in the museum, and asked ourselves as we left, ‘why don’t we come here more often’? Here are some photos that may whet your appetite for a visit! The photographs below are just a small fraction of all that is on view!

The stunning creativity and ingenuity of humankind displayed within the museum, and the museum itself, is incredible and a joy to behold. All this within the beauties of our amazing planet and our incredible universe and solar system.

I then come home and listen to the nightly news bulletin – POW! I ask myself ‘what has gone wrong’? Internationally, nationally, locally, and within families and within me. How come? We can send a man to the moon, voyagers 1 and 2 to interstellar space, invent complex computers and mobile telephones, create the world wide web, discover ways and medicines to cure countless diseases, go to great lengths to save pets and endangered speices …BUT! …. I remember going to N.Ireland on business for the first time during the troubles . The chap who met me said, Welcome Matthew we are a friendly bunch of people here, the only problem is we still kill each other! Yea, just like people all around the world by bombs, guns, knives and words! Our prisons are bursting at the seams here in Scotland, so much so we are releasing prisoners early to make room for others. What is wrong with us?

If you are like me, we are having many charity letters through the door these days asking for help … for Congo, Sudan, Ukraine, West and Central Africa, The Middle East, …….. for those with leprosy, blindness, hunger, thirst, starvation …. all appealing for help. Meanwhile the UK Government today announced the Overseas Aid Budget will be reduced to increase our spend on defence. Mmm…

We should try to do better we say, but in spite of our best intentions it always seems to fall short. The Bible says in fact that all of us have sinned and fall short! Short of our own standard, and short of God’s standard.

At my church we work our way systematically around the books of the Bible. Last Sunday we were looking at The Gospel of John – Chapter three. The chapter that contains the words of Jesus, when he said “You must be born again”. How can you be born again when you are old the hearer asked…. but Jesus’ answer to him is essential to solving the problem of mankinds sin. If you would like to know how it is possible for you and I to be born again, log-on here and listen to pastor Colin Adams unpack these words of Jesus. Our eternal destiny depends on it. The sermon on the video below starts at 38.30 minutes in. I hope you find it helpful.

As always always – happy to have your feedback.

Greetings from Scotland, wherever you are – Matthew

2025 Another stage started on Life’s Journey.

IT’S BEEN A BUSY START!

This year we spent the first day of January with family and friends at Skelmorlie on the Clyde coast, at the home of my son Allan and wife Jacqui. The best of cuisine in the best of company. On the second day of January we met again at the Glasgow Royal Concert Hall for ‘The Messiah’ presentation by the Scottish National Orchestra and Chorus – absolutely beautiful and inspiring! To finish the day we had a tour around the centre of Glasgow to see the ‘Christmas lights’ before they were dismantled for another year! The following sunny but frosty day we made a visit to my daughter and son-in-law at Gartmore, and finally at the end of that first week we met with friends for our annual church day of prayer. Whew, yes a busy start! Photos follow.

A peaceful New Year;s Day with family and friends.

Winter by Robert Burns
The wintry west extends his blast,

Other special big events so far this year, included a trip to hospital with my wife who was having the first of two cataracts removed from her eyes. Thankfully she is already seeing much clearer and sharper in the one eye as a result. Also, we received news that our grand-daughter Lindsey and husband Jamie had presented us with another new great-grandson named Finn. Mother and child both well and now at home.

On a sadder note we have said our farewells on this earth to a number of our older family members and friends during the last few weeks. But we await with hope a reunion in a day to come in the presence of our risen and exalted Lord Jesus Christ.

A VISIT TO THE ROBERT BURNS MEMORIAL IN ALLOWAY, SCOTLAND

Here in Scotland, just exactly one month after Christmas, on the 25 January we celebrate Scotland’s National Bard, Robert Burns and his amazing poetical works. So since the weather turned a bit milder this week, we used our National Trust Cards to visit the thatched cottage where Robert Burns was born in Alloway, and the nearby Burns Museum and coffee shop. It’s well worth a visit if you haven’t been, or haven’t been for a while. Here are some photos, and a couple of short excerpts from two of his best known poems.

‘Tam o Shanter’ by Robert Burns ‘But pleasures are like poppies spread: You seize the flower, its bloom is shed; Or like the snow fall on the river,
A moment white – then melts forever

‘To a Mouse’ by Robert Burns

But Mousie, thou art no thy lane,
In proving foresight may be vain:
The best-laid schemes o’ mice and men
Gang aft a-gley, And lea’e us nought but grief and pain, For promised joy!

I love so many of Burn’s poems and songs, but perhaps my favourite is ‘The Cotters Saturday night‘ which gives such a great picture into family life for many here in Scotland away back in the eighteenth century. I have recorded my recitation of it on You Tube and you can listen to it here if you wish. https://youtu.be/2DJf4xWGZdg?si=huyDHOFIDWMY0lPK

I have seldom if ever, heard anyone quote the words of Robert Burns as he faced death, but in 1781 when that seemed imminent he wrote these words.

O Thou unknown, Almighty Cause of all my hopes and fears, in whose dread presence, ere an hour, Perhaps I must appear. If I have wandered in those paths Of life I aught to shun; As something loudly in my breast Remonstrates I have done.

The last verse says:

Where with intention I have erred, No other plea I have, But thou art good; and goodness still delighteth to forgive.

Sad to read of his uncertainty regarding his final eternal destiny, when it is possible to be sure! When we go on a journey we invariably have everything organised to the last detail, and particularly our final hotel/Guest House accommodation. Yet on our journey through life, thoughts of our final destination are often completely ignored. Our morning Bible reading today was from Matthew 7:13,14. where Jesus says
“Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.’ Jesus is the Gate! (John 10.9) and Jesus is the Way (John 14:6)

So in our current uncertain and unpredictable world where none of us knows what a day may bring, I would ask you, do you know the road you are on? and have you thought of your final destination? In the bible the Apostle John writing to Christians in his first letter says ‘And this is the testimony: God has given us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. Whoever has the Son has life; whoever does not have the Son of God does not have life.’ (1 John 5:11,12)

Time to check it out?

Until next time – I wish you God’s blessing wherever you are.

Matthew

Memorable Moments: A Year Through My Lens

If you are a subscriber to my blog you will know that every year at this time I like to look back on the year’s photographs, and set out some of my favourites, sometimes because I love the photo and at other times just for the special memory, and other memories they invoke! In these three photos below I hope you catch what I mean.

The above are not great photos, in the first two the boat was moving and I was ‘happed up’ with a life jacket. On this cool sunny day without a breath of wind, sailing off the coast of Tiree I felt it was one of these ‘time stands still’ moments when you feel over awed by the breath-taking beauty of it all! Since then, when I look at this photo I think of a similar moment on a boat on the sea of Galilee, just after dawn, when the boatman cut the engine and we floated in quietness on the still blue sea, when the sky and sea seemed to merge. Not surprisingly thoughts of the man who walked on these waters came to mind, and a chorus we sang as kids. Yea, beautiful. I know many of you will have had similar moments when confronted by the beauty of God’s creation.

The Chorus: By blue Galilee Jesus walked of old; By blue Galilee wondrous things He told. Saviour, still my teacher be, showing wondrous things to me, as of old by Galilee blue Galilee.

Now here is a selection of other photos that give us pleasure as my wife and I look over them together

A January walk in the park with Grand daughter, and greatgrand children

There is always a sense of excitement and activity as winter draws to a close and Spring is on the near horizon. Garden tools checked, greenhouse cleaned again, seeds bought, saved seeds checked, propagators and greenhouse cleaned, tube heater check along with it’s timer control. Finally glass cleaned and floor disinfected. I’m smiling, it’s all go now!

Late Spring and Summer we try to get out and about, and we are spoiled for choice, some of these places you may have seen before.

Now for some summer photographs:-

Autumn and Winter photos :-

Many in our world today look ahead with fear and trepidation, which is not surprising considering our news bulletins filled with stories of war, doom and disaster, and considering the war, sorrows and turmoil of the world in 2024.

This reminded me of the poem read by King George Vl in his speech to the nation in 1939 just at the start of the 2nd World War. It was a poem written by Minnie Louise Haskins. Here are the words of the first verse.

Quote: 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 a light and safer than a known way“. So I went forth, and finding the Hand of God, trod gladly into the night. And he led me towards the hills and the breaking of the day in the lone East. Unquote.

A poem said to be a favourite with the late Queen Elizabeth ll, who is credited as the person who handed it to her dad.

Personally, I have recently been reading words from the book af Acts regarding what the Apostle Peter said to the religious leaders of his day just after the resurrection of Jesus, you can read the whole story in the book of Acts chapter 4. He said
“Jesus is the stone you builders rejected,
which has become the cornerstone.’
Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.” Acts 4:11-12.

These words were behind the inspiration for a new Christian song written and composed by Keith Getty and Stuart Townend, which has become one of the favourites of this century. So if you feel the world is becoming increasingly chaotic, and you are in danger of giving up hope, have a read of the words, and check out the song om You Tube and you’ll see why it has become so popular. And may you find new hope and purpose in life, by coming to know this Jesus of whom it speaks.

In Christ alone, my hope is found
He is my light, my strength, my song
This Cornerstone, this solid ground
Firm through the fiercest drought and storm
What heights of love, what depths of peace
When fears are stilled, when strivings cease
My Comforter, my All in All
Here in the love of Christ I stand

In Christ alone, who took on flesh
Fullness of God in helpless babe
This gift of love and righteousness
Scorned by the ones He came to save
‘Til on that cross as Jesus died
The wrath of God was satisfied
For every sin on Him was laid
Here in the death of Christ I live, I live

There in the ground His body lay
Light of the world by darkness slain
Then bursting forth in glorious Day
Up from the grave He rose again
And as He stands in victory
Sin’s curse has lost its grip on me
For I am His and He is mine
Bought with the precious blood of Christ

No guilt in life, no fear in death
This is the power of Christ in me
From life’s first cry to final breath
Jesus commands my destiny
No power of hell, no scheme of man
Can ever pluck me from His hand
Till He returns or calls me home
Here in the power of Christ I’ll stand

I wish all my readers God’s blessing in 2025

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this: